The UK construction sector is set for significant regulatory changes with updates to Part B (Fire Safety) and the introduction of Part T of the building regulations. These changes, aimed at improving fire safety and creating a more rigorous regulatory framework for higher-risk buildings, come into effect over the next few years, with key compliance deadlines starting in April 2024. Here’s a breakdown of the essential updates:

Key Changes to Part B (Fire Safety)

  1. Second Staircases in Residential Buildings Over 18m
    Starting inApril 2024, all new residential buildings over 18 meters tall will be required to have a second staircase. This change is designed to improve evacuation routes and overall fire safety for occupants in high-rise buildings.
  2. Sprinkler Systems in New Care Homes
    From2025, sprinklers will become mandatory in all new care homes, reflecting the heightened need for fire suppression systems in facilities housing vulnerable residents.
  3. Transition from BS 476 to European Standards (BS EN 13501)
    The use of the national fire test classification (BS 476) will be withdrawn by2025, with all fire safety assessments transitioning toEuropean standards (BS EN 13501). This aligns UK regulations with international standards, ensuring more consistent fire safety practices.
  4. Evacuation Lifts to be Considered
  5. Evacuation Alert Systems in High-Rise Residential Buildings
    Residential buildings over 18 meters tall will be required to install evacuation alert systems (BS 8629), giving fire services greater control during emergencies.
  6. Secure Information Boxes in Flats
    Flats with a top floor over 11 meters will now be required to havesecure information boxesinstalled. These boxes will provide critical building information to fire services during emergency responses.
  7. Additional Firefighting Shaft for Large Basements in Tall Residential Buildings
    Tall residential buildings with large basements will need to incorporate an additionalfirefighting shaft, improving access for fire services and overall building safety.

Introduction of Part T: The Building Safety Regulator

Part T establishes the reason guidance for the provision of single sex and unisex toilet provisions, in addition to the requirements for wheelchair accessible wc and changing places facilities already within the guidance to part M of the regulations. The changes came into force in October 2024

Key Provisions to Part T (Toilets) Guidance

  • Sets out what is the Expected Design provisions should be – guidance on sizes for cubicles and what is required in cubicles
  • Introduces New Terminology – new names for the types of facilities
  • Guidance for Single Sex and Unisex Provisions – cubicle design and scale of provision
  • Guidance on Design Provisions – guidance on signage, layouts, heating appliances and general design requirements

What This Means for the UK Construction Industry

The changes to Part B and the introduction of Part T represent the most significant updates to UK building regulations in recent years, with a clear focus on fire safety and building safety. For developers, contractors, and building control professionals, these new requirements will require careful planning and adaptation, especially for higher-risk buildings.

At Salus, we are proud to have a high number of Level 2 and Level 3 specialists within our Building Regulation Consultancy and Building Control Approver services, making us well-prepared to guide our clients through these regulatory changes. Our team’s expertise ensures that your projects, regardless of size or complexity, meet the new fire safety and building safety standards.