Fire Risk Assessment Template 2026
Free, OHSA-compliant fire risk assessment for construction sites, commercial buildings, and industrial facilities in South Africa. Covers hazard identification, fire extinguisher selection, emergency evacuation plans, and hot work permits — all aligned with SANS 10400-T and the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85 of 1993).
Legal Requirements — Why You Need a Fire Risk Assessment
- • OHSA Section 8: Every employer must provide a safe working environment, including fire prevention measures.
- • Construction Regulations 29: Principal contractors must have site-specific emergency procedures including fire response.
- • SANS 10400-T: National Building Regulations covering fire protection requirements for all building classes.
- • Municipal by-laws: Local fire department approval may be required before construction commences.
- • NFPA 241: International standard for fire protection during construction, alteration, and demolition of buildings.
Construction Site Fire Hazards & Controls
Use this hazard register as a starting template. Add site-specific hazards based on your scope of work, materials, and environment.
| Hazard | Risk Rating | Control Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Hot work (welding, cutting, grinding) | Extreme | Hot work permit, fire watch, 10m clear radius, fire extinguisher on standby |
| Flammable liquids storage | High | Bunded area, No Smoking signage, SDS available, ventilation, max 200L on-site |
| Electrical installations | High | Compliance certificate (CoC), residual current devices, regular inspections |
| Temporary LPG installations | High | Cylinders upright & chained, 3m from ignition sources, tested connections |
| Smoking on site | Medium | Designated smoking areas, no-smoking zones enforced, fire marshals appointed |
| Accumulated combustible waste | Medium | Daily housekeeping, designated waste areas, skip bins covered |
| Temporary timber structures & formwork | Medium | Fire retardant treatment, separation from heat sources, covered storage |
| Overloaded electrical distribution boards | High | Load calculations, MCB/RCD protection, inspection by qualified electrician |
Fire Extinguisher Types — Which One Do You Need?
South African fire extinguisher selection follows SANS 1910 standards. The table below helps you match the right extinguisher to each fire class on your site.
| Extinguisher Type | Fire Class | Best Used For | Colour Band |
|---|---|---|---|
| DCP (Dry Chemical Powder) | A, B, C | General purpose – wood, liquids, gas, electrical | Red with blue band |
| CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide) | B, E | Electrical fires, flammable liquids in enclosed spaces | Red with black band |
| Foam (AFFF) | A, B | Flammable liquids, paper/wood (NOT electrical) | Red with cream band |
| Water | A | Paper, wood, textiles only | All red |
Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan Checklist
Every construction site must have a documented evacuation plan per Construction Regulation 29. Include the following:
Hot Work Permit Requirements
Any work involving open flames, sparks, or heat (welding, cutting, grinding, soldering) requires a Hot Work Permit. This is a legal requirement under the OHSA General Safety Regulations.
Hot Work Permit Must Include:
Related Safety Templates
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