Fire risk 'lesson learned' after craze rescue blaze
A fire broke out at the Station Hill high-rise development in Reading in November 2023, with thick smoke visible across the city. A worker was rescued by crane operator Glen Edwards during the blaze. The building is due to open soon to tenants including PepsiCo. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) emphasised that “hot work” – tasks involving open flames or heat – should be avoided where possible to reduce fire risk. The Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service is investigating the cause. HSE highlighted lessons learned from the incident, urging the construction industry to ensure “suitable and sufficient measures” are in place to manage fire risks on site.
COO Phil Jones comments:
Hot work—such as welding, cutting, grinding, or soldering—poses a serious fire risk if not properly controlled. Maintaining strict fire safety procedures during hot work is vital to prevent sparks or heat from igniting flammable materials nearby, especially in environments where construction or repair activity is ongoing. Controls like fire watches, protective barriers, permits, and proper housekeeping aren’t just formalities—they’re lifesaving precautions.