Construction Fire Safety Plans Focus

Construction season is in full swing, and as projects ramp up across British Columbia, safety is top of mind for site managers and developers. But one crucial requirement often gets overlooked in the early stages: the Construction Fire Safety Plan (CFSP).

Whether you're building a residential high-rise, a commercial facility, or large-scale infrastructure, a CFSP isn't just a formality, it's a legal requirement that protects your site, your workers, and the surrounding community. In this blog, we break down what CFSPs are, when you need them, and how Radius Security's expertise ensures your project stays compliant and secure.

What is a Construction Fire Safety Plan (CFSP)?

A CFSP is a mandatory document required by the British Columbia Fire Code for all construction, renovation, or demolition projects. Its purpose is to:

• Identify fire risks specific to the construction site
• Outline prevention measures and emergency response protocols
• Ensure regulatory compliance before building permits are issued

In short, if you're breaking ground on a new project, you need a CFSP before construction begins.

When Should You Develop a CFSP?

Before construction starts. A CFSP is required to obtain your building permit. Contractors and developers typically initiate this process to ensure no delays when dealing with city officials and fire prevention authorities.

Why Fire Safety Planning is Essential for Construction Sites

Construction projects face a wide range of fire risks, particularly large wood-frame developments where fire exposure to neighbouring properties is a serious concern. A well-prepared CFSP addresses these risks and ensures you're meeting municipal and fire code requirements.

Failing to plan can result in:

• Permit delays
• Costly rework due to rejected documentation
• Increased liability for the site and surrounding community

What Makes a Comprehensive CFSP?

Radius Security's Construction Fire Safety Plans are trusted by developers across BC because they meet (and often exceed) local jurisdiction requirements. Our process includes:

Required Elements:

• Site Management Plan Drawing: Maps out site conditions during construction, including:
  • Gate locations
  • Hazards
  • Electrical and water shut-offs
  • Crane positions
  • Extinguisher and airhorn locations
  • Assembly areas

• Text Document detailing:
  • Fire Safety Director and Deputy responsibilities
  • Hot works procedures
  • NFPA and BC Fire Code requirements
  • Hazardous materials protocols
  • Fire watch requirements

For large wood-frame projects, an additional Protection of Adjacent Properties Report may be required. This supplemental report, stamped by a Fire Protection Engineer, outlines fire risk exposures to neighbouring buildings and proposes mitigation solutions.

Radius Security's Proven Process

With nearly two decades of experience, Radius Security simplifies the process for busy contractors and developers:

1. We send a detailed questionnaire based on project specifics and city requirements.
2. Our team prepares the site drawings and text documentation.
3. We work with your construction team to review and finalize the plan.
4. We submit the plan to the fire department and liaise with fire prevention officers.
5. Once approved, we provide hard copies (red binders) for on-site use.

Our CFSPs are "live" documents. We collaborate with site teams to keep them updated as conditions evolve.

Why Choose Radius Security for Fire Safety Planning?

• Over 30 years of industry expertise
• Deep familiarity with city-specific requirements across British Columbia
• Established relationships with fire prevention officers
• Proven track record with high-profile projects like Vancouver House, Shangri-La, EA Sports, and more
• Trusted by contractors for both fire safety planning and site security

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many clients underestimate CFSP requirements or attempt to manage them without expert help, leading to rejected plans, rework, and project delays. Every jurisdiction is different, and fire prevention officers expect professionally prepared documentation.

Pro tip: Engage with a fire safety professional like Radius well before your building permit deadlines.

Be Ready Before You Build

A Construction Fire Safety Plan isn't just another checkbox, it's a critical tool to safeguard your project, your people, and your timeline. With Radius Security, you get peace of mind knowing your CFSP will meet all requirements the first time.

Need help preparing your CFSP or Occupancy Fire Safety Plan? Contact Radius Security today and let our team ensure your site is compliant, safe, and summer-ready.