Description
There has been a been a mainly prolonged dry spell across much of the UK&I. There have been reports of wildfire around the country. This bulletin acts as a reminder to the increased potential for wildfires.
General Discussion Point
The risk of wildfires increases after periods of prolonged hot and dry weather combined with combustible vegetation such as peaty soil or forestry. They can also be devastating to local wildlife. As such it is important that sites assess whether they fit within this risk profile and if so the proper controls are in place.
During such conditions increased vigilance should be given to:
- Ensuring that Emergency response plans are up to date
- Monitoring local weather and fire warnings as well as conditions on site
- Communicating with other stakeholders such as local fire services landowners, OEM and other contractors to ensure they are aware of the risk and requirement for increased vigilance
- Enforcing site rules; ensuring no naked flames encounter vegetation e.g. cigarettes, consider a total ban on smoking at sites during especially dry periods
- Ensuring machinery/equipment is well maintained and turned off when not in use to prevent overheating
- Ensuring sufficient controls are in place when undertaking hot works e.g. increasing fire watch and provision of fire-fighting equipment
- Adoption of adequate levels of supervision and site attendance/inspection are required to monitor conditions on site
- Site housekeeping; do not allow combustible/flammable materials/waste to build up on site.
Acknowledgement
This information was provided by RES (HSQE Bulletin 04-20) and shared with SafetyOn for circulation to members