A contractor must, in addition to compliance with the Environmental Regulations for Workplaces, 1987, ensure that—
(a) |
all appropriate measures are taken to avoid the risk of fire; |
(b) |
sufficient and suitable storage is provided for flammable liquids, solids and gases; |
(c) |
smoking is prohibited and notices in this regard are prominently displayed in all places containing readily combustible or flammable materials; |
(d) |
in confined spaces and other places in which flammable gases, vapours or dust can cause danger— |
(i) |
only suitably protected electrical installations and equipment, including portable lights, are used; |
(ii) |
there are no flames or similar means of ignition; |
(iii) |
there are conspicuous notices prohibiting smoking; |
(iv) |
oily rags, waste and other substances liable to ignite are without delay removed to a safe place; and |
(v) |
adequate ventilation is provided; |
(e) |
combustible materials do not accumulate on the construction site; |
(f) |
welding, flame cutting and other hot work are done only after appropriate precautions have been taken to reduce the risk of fire; |
(g) |
suitable and sufficient fire-extinguishing equipment is placed at strategic locations or as may be recommended by the Fire Chief or local authority concerned, and that such equipment is maintained in a good working order; |
(h) |
the fire equipment contemplated in paragraph (g) is inspected by a competent person, who has been appointed in writing for that purpose, in the manner indicated by the manufacturer thereof; |
(i) |
a sufficient number of workers are trained in the use of fire-extinguishing equipment; |
(j) |
where appropriate, suitable visual signs are provided to clearly indicate the escape routes in the case of a fire; |
(k) |
the means of escape is kept clear at all times; |
(l) |
there is an effective evacuation plan providing for all— |
(i) |
persons to be evacuated speedily without panic; |
(ii) |
persons to be accounted for; and |
(iii) |
plant and processes to be shut down; and |
(m) |
a siren is installed and sounded in the event of a fire. |