Timber, insulation, sheeting, and fuel are common on construction sites. Add hot work and electrical installations, and the risk of fire increases. That’s why FR-rated materials are widely used as part of safety measures.
Here’s what standards apply, where they’re specified, and when they’re needed on site.
Why Contractors Use Fire-Retardant Materials
Fire-retardant (FR) materials slow ignition and reduce flame spread through temporary structures and coverings. Contractors use them to help manage site risks and meet project requirements, including fire safety standards and industry guidance such as the JCoP.
Did you know?
The Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) for Fire Prevention on Construction Sites was first published in 1992, after a string of major fires in buildings under construction or undergoing refurbishment in the late 1980s and early 90s, including the London Underwriting Centre at Minster Court.
A single loss reportedly larger than the entire UK construction insurance market's annual premium that year.
Common Fire-Retardant Materials & Where They Are Used on Sites
Different parts of a construction site may require different levels of protection. These are some of the FR products most often specified for temporary works and site operations.
FR floor protection
Temporary floor protection is mostly installed indoors during refurbishment and fit outs to protect finished surfaces from impact, debris, and traffic. However, sparks from grinding, cutting, or welding can still reach them. FR solutions are better in these areas.
This Floorgard FR Corry Board Sheet (LPCB), for instance, is trusted by many builders for its fire-retardant, fire-resistant, and versatile features.
FR dust screen
Dust spreads beyond the work area and settles on furniture, appliances, and even inside cabinets. But there are cases where dust is not the only concern. During renovation work involving heat tools or electrical work, fire-retardant dust screens are recommended.
FR scaffold sheeting
Scaffold sheeting is used to enclose work areas around a structure for protection from wind and rain. FR-rated versions are treated with fire-retardant additives and are specified where scaffolds are exposed to hot work or other higher-risk activities, such as welding, cutting, or electrical work.
One example is PLUS FR Scaffold Sheeting. It’s Warringtonfire certified to TS62, which confirms improved performance in higher fire-risk environments. This certification can support compliance with the Joint Code of Practice (JCoP).
FR debris netting
Debris netting is fixed to the outside of scaffolding to contain loose material falling from heights. In situations where a spark leaves the work area and reaches the netting, it’s less reactive to ignition and prevents it from developing into a wider accident.
FR shrink wrap
Shrink wrap encloses scaffolding by forming a drum-tight skin through heat shrinking and welding. As installation involves heat tools and other trades may still be working nearby, fire-retardant versions give added assurance in conditions like these.
Fire blankets
Even with FR materials present, extra fire protection is sometimes needed for small fires or sudden ignition events. Fire blankets are a standard item for immediate use in localised situations.
It smothers and contains small fires by cutting off oxygen. If it’s safe to reach, the blanket can be used straight away. On a compliant work area, this can mean action is taken before fire alarms escalate or fire extinguishers are used.
Read the full guide here: How Much Safety Does a Fire Blanket Add to a Fire-Compliant Worksite
Fire-retardant materials can slow the movement of flames across a surface. This also gives workers more time to react, follow emergency procedures, and evacuate if required. On top of that, it may help contractors meet project specifications and safety requirements.
We supply all the products mentioned above, including a range of fire protection products. For enquiries and fast quotes, email our team at customercare@s-pgroup.com or call 028 9411 0032. SP Group is a temporary protection and scaffold supplier based in the UK and Ireland.