Fire Safety Construction Site Safety 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During demolition, what fire hazard is created by cutting through walls?
- No fire hazard exists during demolition
- Cutting may expose hidden electrical wiring, gas lines, or create sparks that ignite dust and debris (Correct answer)
- Only aesthetic concerns
- Sound pollution only
Correct answer: Cutting may expose hidden electrical wiring, gas lines, or create sparks that ignite dust and debris
Demolition work can expose live electrical circuits, breach gas lines, and generate sparks from cutting tools, all of which can ignite accumulated dust and combustible debris.
Question 2: What is the proper storage method for flammable liquids at a construction site?
- In any available container
- In approved flammable liquid storage cabinets or designated areas away from ignition sources (Correct answer)
- Near the heating equipment for easy access
- In open containers for ventilation
Correct answer: In approved flammable liquid storage cabinets or designated areas away from ignition sources
Flammable liquids must be stored in approved containers within designated storage cabinets or areas, away from heat sources, electrical panels, and other potential ignition sources.
Question 3: What should a fire guard check regarding fire extinguishers during their patrol?
- That they are the correct color
- That they are charged, accessible, properly mounted, and have current inspection tags (Correct answer)
- That they are the most expensive brand
- Only that they are present
Correct answer: That they are charged, accessible, properly mounted, and have current inspection tags
Fire extinguisher checks should verify full charge (gauge in green zone), accessibility (not blocked), proper mounting, current inspection tags, and no visible damage.
Question 4: What is the fire safety concern with tarps and temporary enclosures at construction sites?
- They block the view
- They can trap heat and fumes, restrict ventilation, and become fuel for fire if not fire-retardant treated (Correct answer)
- They are unsightly
- They block cell phone signals
Correct answer: They can trap heat and fumes, restrict ventilation, and become fuel for fire if not fire-retardant treated
Non-fire-retardant tarps and enclosures can trap heat from temporary heating devices, restrict ventilation allowing gas accumulation, and serve as fuel if a fire starts.
Question 5: What is the maximum operating temperature for a portable propane heater at a construction site?
- There is no maximum
- Per manufacturer specifications, typically with automatic shutoffs at 450-500°F surface temperature (Correct answer)
- 800°F
- 1,000°F
Correct answer: Per manufacturer specifications, typically with automatic shutoffs at 450-500°F surface temperature
Portable propane heaters must be operated within manufacturer specifications, which typically include automatic safety shutoffs to prevent surface temperatures from exceeding safe limits.
Question 6: What is the fire guard's responsibility regarding means of egress at a construction site?
- None, that is the general contractor's job
- Ensuring all exit paths are clear, accessible, illuminated, and not blocked by materials or equipment (Correct answer)
- Only checking the main entrance
- Only during an emergency
Correct answer: Ensuring all exit paths are clear, accessible, illuminated, and not blocked by materials or equipment
The fire guard must verify that all exit paths remain clear and accessible during each patrol, as construction activities frequently create temporary obstructions.
Fire Safety Construction Site Safety 2
During demolition, what fire hazard is created by cutting through walls?