Updated Fire Safety Standard for UK Residential Buildings: BS 9991:2024
The British Standards Institution (BSI), the UK’s national standards body, has officially released its updated fire safety guidance for residential buildings, BS 9991:2024.
Published on 27 November 2024, this revised code of practice replaces BS 9991:2015 and introduces significant updates to address modern building complexities and enhanced fire safety requirements.
Key Changes in BS 9991:2024
The updated guidance expands its scope to include residential care homes and features detailed updates on:
Evacuation lifts
Revised height limits for sprinkler installation
Guidance for single-stair buildings
BS 9991:2024, titled Fire safety in the design, management and use of residential buildings – Code of practice, is applicable across the UK and aims to ensure the latest fire safety measures are embedded in building design and management.
Insights Behind the Update
The BSI previously shared insights into the revised standard, highlighting its importance in addressing the increasing complexity of modern buildings and incorporating advances in fire safety knowledge, materials, and systems. According to the BSI, the changes stem from a comprehensive consultation process with key stakeholders, including feedback on over 1,800 public comments.
While the updates were already underway prior to the publication of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s final report in September 2024, the report reinforced the need for robust and up-to-date building safety standards.
Technical Committee and Development Process
The revision was overseen by the FSH/14 Fire Precautions in Buildings Committee, which is responsible for developing national standards on fire safety precautions, fire risk assessments, and fire management systems for residential and commercial buildings.
Access the New Standard
To explore the full details of BS 9991:2024, you can access the standard here.
This critical update reaffirms the importance of evolving fire safety measures and supports the construction industry’s efforts to meet the challenges of modern building design while prioritising the safety of occupants.
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