NEW data from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has revealed there has been 170 fires at construction sites in the past five years.
A freedom of information request, submitted by The Fire Co, sought information on fires attended since 2021 at buildings or sites that were under construction, renovation, or conversion at the time of the incident and not fully occupied.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service recorded the highest number of incidents at 170, with 77 of these being deliberate and one resulting in injury and/or fatality. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service follows closely behind, with 157 incidents recorded in the same period – 76 of these fires were confirmed or suspected to be deliberate.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service recorded similar figures, with 139 fires, but only 29 of these were deliberate. However, 10 injuries and/or fatalities were recorded.
Rob Watchorn, director and fire safety consultant at The Fire Co, said, “The figures are really worrying for the industry. Construction sites are already high-risk environments. People are working at height, using heavy machinery, handling electrical systems and flammable materials. The last thing contractors and site teams need is the added threat of fire hanging over them.
“What’s particularly disappointing is that nearly half of these incidents are believed to be deliberate. In many cases, that won’t come down to site operators or contractors, and may involve third parties, trespassers or even wider criminal activity. But whichever way you look at it, it’s deeply concerning.
“Everyone should feel safe when they turn up to work. Construction workers already accept a certain level of risk as part of the job. Fire, especially avoidable fire, should not be another thing they have to worry about.
“Beyond the obvious danger to life, fires have a huge knock-on effect. They cause serious delays, disrupt supply chains and push up costs. Project delays can mean penalties, financial strain and even damage to contractors’ reputations.
“That’s why the recent move by the BSI to unveil a draft PAS standard for fire safety is such an important step forward. But improved standards can only make a difference if they’re followed properly. Contractors need to comply with new and existing fire safety requirements and be proactive about improving practices on site.
“This is about raising the bar across the industry. Better site security, stronger fire prevention measures, and clearer accountability mean we not only protect buildings, but also the people working on them and local communities.”
