General information for building trade safety

General Information

When providing new constructions and installations, or adapting an existing structure, make sure suitable fire protection is maintained.
If unsure then seek specialist guidance. General information is provided below, with specialist advice in our further information section. 
  • Make sure that existing barriers to fire are just as effective when you leave as they were before you carried out the work.
  • If you see something that you are not happy with concerning fire safety then advise your client.  It is your responsibility as a building professional.
Contractors carrying out fire safety work should be competent. Construction (Design and Management) Regulations state that to be competent an organisation or individual must have:
  • Sufficient knowledge of the tasks to be undertaken and the risks involve.
  • The experience and ability to carry out their duties in relation to the project, to recognise their limitations and take appropriate action to prevent harm to those carrying out construction work, or those affected by the work.
Construction workers, be alert and take care in what you do.
  • Being more fire safety aware and knowledgeable underpins your professionalism.
  • Leave the situation no worse than it was before you started.
  • You are not expected to be experts in all aspects of fire safety – but do need to know when to ask questions and seek specialist advice.
  • If you can make an improvement that will improve safety, make it!