Since 2018, the UK government has become a check of fire safety standards. As a result of these actions, from 23rd December 2022 to 17th March 2023, a general consultation in the building industry was done. In conclusion, propose new rules that change fire safety standards in high-risk buildings.
Main source: Consultation response – Amendments to Approved Document B: Second Staircases
What causes changes in fire safety rules
The main reason why this happens it’s govt wishes to ensure the actuality of safety standards. It mainly connects buildings with many floors and people with limited possibilities. Government officials want to be sure that all people who live in high buildings have opportunities to leave the house safely in case of emergencies.
Which changes in regulations are we waiting for?
As the result of the discussion were proposed changes:
The presence of sprinklers in all houses where aged people live doesn’t depend on the height of the house.
Cancel the national system of classification for building materials. Instead, it proposes to check all building products according to British standards.
Introduce a new rule that all buildings higher than 30 m. must have at least 2 separate stairs. Also, all buildings that are higher than 18 m. should have 2 separate stairs, but it is not mandatory.
Introduction evacuation lifts.
Also recommended is introducing a separate protected lobby. But before it, a few problems must be solved, including smoke protection and laying of hoses.
How safety rules changes will influence the building industry
Firstly, new safety rules lead to re-planing present projects, which take more money and time. So construction companies request a transition period of at least 6-12 months. From its side, the UK government proposes a 30-month transition period, during which all companies must correct their projects. Fencyx, as one of the leaders in the building industry, takes into account these recommendations to make your homes safer.
Read also: Following safety rules is a key factor in the building industry