Fabric structures have revolutionized the way we think about worksite safety. Crafted from highly durable materials, they offer protection from the elements and reduce potential safety hazards.
However, this doesn’t mean that these structures don’t come with their own set of safety issues to watch out for. To help protect you and your employees, we’ve created this guide to worksite safety with fabric structures.
Implementing Fire Safety Considerations
While fabric structures are inherently flame resistant, they aren’t impervious to fire hazards. Materials used in the construction of these structures can self-extinguish in the event of a fire. However, it’s still essential to observe strict fire safety protocols.
Avoid using open flame devices, and ensure that a professional installs and maintains electrical wiring and equipment. Additionally, regularly inspect these installations for any signs of wear, damage, or malfunctioning that could potentially ignite a fire. Fire extinguishers should be readily available and easily accessible, while fire exits and pathways must be clear at all times to ensure swift and safe evacuations.
Using Proper Anchoring Techniques
Proper anchoring techniques are paramount to safeguard your worksite and personnel. For one, you should choose the anchoring system based on the site’s ground conditions, such as concrete anchors for hard surfaces and screw anchors for softer grounds. Selecting the right anchor can offer robust resistance against adverse weather conditions.
You should reinforce the structure’s anchoring points to prevent tearing and ensure structural integrity. Moreover, regular inspection and maintenance of the anchoring system can prevent potential failures due to wear and tear or weathering over time.
Conducting Consistent and Thorough Inspections
Routine inspections are the foundation of a safe and well-maintained fabric structure. This involves thoroughly examining every component of the structure, from the fabric material to the anchoring system.
Look for any visible signs of wear or damage, such as rips in the fabric, loose fasteners, or signs of corrosion. Pay particular attention to doors and windows, which are often high-traffic areas prone to wear and tear.
Additionally, keep an eye out for any signs of water damage or mold, as these could compromise the structure’s stability and pose health risks to personnel. Regular inspections should also extend to the structure’s interior and check for hazards like cluttered evacuation routes or improperly stored materials.
Ensuring Your Structure Meets Local Building Codes
Compliance with local building codes and regulations isn’t just a legal necessity but a critical aspect of ensuring worksite safety. Authorities put these codes in place to establish guidelines for the design, construction, and maintenance of structures, all with the overarching objective of promoting public health, safety, and welfare.
These may encompass structural safety, fire safety, environmental impact, accessibility, and more. Non-compliance can result in legal penalties, operational disruptions, and, most importantly, compromise your worksite’s safety.
With this guide to worksite safety with fabric structures, you’re one step closer to making your jobsite run as smoothly, efficiently, and safely as possible.
Fortunately, here at Big Top Manufacturing, we do all of the work to make sure our coverall building systems meet your local building codes and requirements. You can count on us to install a safe and up-to-date fabric structure that meets your applications’ specific needs.
