What is an NFPA 241 Construction Site Fire Safety Plan?
NFPA 241 is the Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations. Any structure undergoing construction, alteration, or demolition may need to comply with NFPA 241 which gives the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) the ability to require a documented plan for compliance be submitted. Not sure if your project or jurisdiction requires an NPFA 241 plan? Check with one of our experienced fire protection engineers.
Why do you need an NFPA 241 plan?
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), between 2010 and 2014, firefighters in the US responded to approximately 3,750 fires for structures under construction, 2,560 fires at sites where major renovations were taking place, and a reported 2,130 fires where projects under demolition.
NPFA 241 was introduced to assist with keeping construction sites safe. The purpose of NFPA 241 is to provide a set of minimum guidelines to assist in the safety of people and property against fires during construction, alteration, and demolition.
What are the new NFPA 241 requirements?
In 2019, new requirements for NFPA 241 were issued. These include new areas with important clarifications (source NFPA):
- Temporary heating equipment and cooking equipment continue near the top of the list for ignition sources in the construction environment. New provisions reinforce the need to secure such equipment to prevent displacement.
- A new requirement helps ensure that electrical service disconnecting means are readily accessible and clearly labeled.
- A new reference to NFPA 56 addresses cleaning and purging of fuel gas piping during both the installation and removal process of such systems.
- The requirement for guard services is now specifically mandated for a building using combustible construction that is more than 40 feet above grade.
- A new section in Chapter 11 deals with standpipe installation in tunnels under construction.
- A new chapter focuses on tall timber structures and the importance of a Fire Exposure Analysis.
- An added section allows the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) to implement portions of the standard as appropriate.
Construction or demolition contractors, insurance professionals, risk managers, fire service professionals, building owners, and building engineers reference NFPA 241 to avoid fire dangers on the job.
Not sure if you need an NFPA 241 Program?
TERPconsulting is ready to assist with any NFPA 241 Program Plans or questions you may have. We’re here to keep construction sites safe and avoid fire dangers on the job.