Almost 230 notices have been served in cases involving fire hazards on constructions sites in 2009/2010, according to figures obtained from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

In the year 1 April 2009-31 March 2010, 229 prohibition notices or improvement notices were served, compared to 98 in the previous 12-month period.

This year so far, 114 notices have been served since 1 April.

“We will ensure that fire precautions – both process and general fire precautions – are in place,” states the HSE construction division’s plan of work for 2010/11.”Particular attention will be given to fire precautions on timber frame structures, and multi-storey or part occupied premises.”

The figures come in advance of the expected publication of a revised guide, Fire In Construction (HSG 168) on 1 October. The revision of the guidance follows two recent major timber frame fires in London.

Download an HSE presentation on construction site fire safety (.ppt 18MB)