October 8, 2024
New Regulations on sprinklers in care homes and updated fire classifications
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Last week, the government announced changes aimed at enhancing protection in care homes and updating fire safety standards across the country. Among these changes is the requirement for sprinklers in new care homes and the decision to remove the dual classification to BS 476 fire classifications and/or EN 13501 standard to just EN 13501.
Sprinklers in care homes
A notable aspect of the government’s new regulations is the mandate for sprinklers to be installed in all new care homes.
The government’s focus on care homes is particularly relevant given the heightened risks faced by residents who may have limited mobility or other health issues that could hinder their ability to evacuate quickly during a fire. By requiring sprinklers, the government aims to provide an additional layer of protection that can help to contain fires and reduce the likelihood of fatalities or serious injuries.
Shifting from BS 476 to EN 13501
In addition to the sprinkler mandate, the government has announced the withdrawal of the outdated BS 476 fire classification system in favour of the European standard EN 13501. This shift represents a significant change in how fire safety is measured and enforced in the UK and removes the confusion caused by the existing dual classification system
BS 476 has been the cornerstone of fire testing standards in the UK for decades, but it is increasingly seen as outdated, says the FIA, particularly in the context of modern building materials and construction methods. The EN 13501 standard, which is widely used across Europe, offers a more comprehensive and rigorous approach to fire classification, testing both reaction to fire and fire resistance.
The FIA advises that the adoption of EN 13501 will require more extensive testing of passive fire protection products. Manufacturers and suppliers will need to ensure that their products meet the new standard, which may involve additional costs and time for testing and certification. However, this move is expected to raise the overall safety standards, ensuring that products used in UK buildings provide a higher level of fire resistance and performance.
Residential PEEPS
The government intends to implement the outstanding recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 1 report relating to the safety of disabled and vulnerable residents within high-rise buildings in England.
Referred to as ‘Residential PEEPS’, the proposals will see residents with disabilities and impairments entitled to a “person-centred risk assessment to identify appropriate equipment and adjustments to aid their fire safety/evacuation, as well as a ‘Residential PEEPs statement’ that records what vulnerable residents should do in the event of a fire”.
According to the government, it has “committed funding next year to begin this important work by supporting social housing providers to deliver Residential PEEPs for their renters. Future years’ funding will be confirmed at the upcoming Spending Review.”
Approved Document B
Updates to Approved Document B (Fire Safety) to support enhanced fire safety will come into effect in 2025, 2026, and 2029. In summary:
- Provisions for sprinklers in all new care homes, irrespective of height, will take effect on 2 March 2025.
- The removal of references to the national classification system (BS 476) for reaction to fire and roofs will take effect on 2 March 2025.
- The removal of references to the national classification system (BS 476) for fire resistance will come into force on 2 September 2029.
- As outlined by the previous government, second stair provisions in residential buildings over 18m in height will come into force on 30 September 2026.
Significant developments
The introduction of mandatory sprinklers in care homes and the shift to the EN 13501 classification system are significant developments that will impact multiple aspects of fire safety strategy and product compliance in the UK, comments the FIA.
The body advises that for care home operators, the key will be understanding the specific requirements of the new regulations and determining whether traditional sprinklers or equivalent systems like watermist will be permissible. Engaging with fire safety professionals and regulatory bodies will be essential to ensure compliance and to select the most effective fire suppression systems.
For manufacturers and suppliers of passive fire protection products, it is noted that the transition to EN 13501 will require a proactive approach to testing and certification. Planning now is vital for the additional testing that will be required and to consider the potential impacts on product development timelines and costs.
The Written Ministerial Statement issued on 2 September 2024 by the Minister for Building Safety and Homelessness can be found here.
This covers the recognition of the Conformité Européenne (CE) marking for construction products. Current Government guidance setting out that recognition of CE marking will end in June 2025.
FIA/FPA
September 2024
