Welding sparks ignite ceiling fire at Suva school: NFA

A fire at Yat Sen Primary School in Suva on Wednesday has raised serious concerns over fire safety in schools, particularly during maintenance works, National Fire Authority (NFA) chief executive officer Puamau Sowane said.

NFA crews responded promptly, finding the fire had started in the ceiling cavity, a high-risk area where flames can spread unseen.

“Crews acted swiftly to contain the fire using a 4.5kg dry powder extinguisher,” Mr Sowane said.

“Sections of the ceiling were opened to ventilate the area and prevent further spread. The fire was contained before it could become a major structural incident.”

Preliminary investigations indicate the blaze was caused by sparks from welding on the roof, which ignited combustible materials in the ceiling.

“This is deeply concerning in a school environment, where the safety of children and staff must always be the highest priority,” Mr Sowane said.

“Fires in concealed spaces can spread rapidly and often go undetected until it is too late.”

He warned that while this fire was linked to welding, electrical faults remain a leading cause of structural fires in Fiji.

“Unsafe practices, whether uncontrolled welding or faulty electrical systems, can have devastating consequences. These incidents are preventable, and strict safety procedures must always be followed.”

The NFA urges contractors, property managers, and the public to observe strict safety measures during hot work or electrical installations, including:

• Obtaining proper authorisation and risk assessments before welding or cutting works;
• Removing or shielding flammable materials from work areas;
• Keeping fire extinguishers accessible;
• Regularly inspecting and maintaining electrical wiring and appliances;
• Avoiding overloaded power outlets and damaged equipment.

The authority emphasised that early reporting is critical to prevent loss of life and property.

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