Fire Protection Program
Fire extinguisher placement, hot work fire watch requirements, suppression system impairment procedures, and fire watch assignment protocols.
What this document is
This document is a written Fire Protection Program that contractors can customize for their jobsites. It sets out clear procedures for fire prevention, equipment placement, and assigned responsibilities during construction activities.
The regulation that requires it
29 CFR 1926.150 requires employers to have fire protection programs on construction sites. The standard states that "the employer shall provide for the firefighting equipment listed in paragraphs (c), (d), and (e) of this section" and requires "a fire watch" when hot work creates fire hazards. It also covers impairment of fire suppression systems and extinguisher distribution based on workplace conditions. These rules apply to all construction employers under federal OSHA authority.
Who needs it
General contractors, specialty trade contractors, and any employer performing construction work with fire hazards need this program. This includes electrical, plumbing, welding, roofing, and demolition trades. California contractors must comply with the equivalent Title 8 CCR Section 1926.150 adopted by Cal/OSHA. Even smaller employers with occasional hot work or temporary fuel storage should maintain a written program.
What happens without it
OSHA and Cal/OSHA frequently cite employers during site inspections for missing or incomplete fire protection programs. A serious violation currently carries penalties up to $16,131 per violation while willful or repeat violations can reach $161,323. Multi-employer worksites increase citation risk because controlling contractors can be held responsible for subcontractor fire safety failures. Lack of documented fire watch and extinguisher procedures often triggers citations during hot work or when flammable materials are present.
What's included in the generated document
- Fire extinguisher selection, placement, and inspection requirements
- Hot work permit and fire watch assignment protocols
- Procedures for impairment of fire suppression systems
- Employee training and responsibility assignments
- Recordkeeping and program review requirements
How to implement it at your company
- Download and review the PDF, then edit the bracketed sections with your company name, site specifics, and responsible personnel.
- Distribute copies to site supervisors and safety coordinators and conduct a brief training session on the procedures.
- Post the fire watch and extinguisher location information at the job site as required.
- Integrate the program into your daily hot work permit process and maintain the completed records.
- Review and update the document annually or when site conditions change.