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MAIN CHANGES IN THE 2000

EDITION
This edition of Approved Document B, Fire safety, B3
replaces the 1992 edition. The main changes are:
g. Places of special fire hazard: these need to
be enclosed in fire-resisting construction.
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
h. Compartments: maximum compartment
a. Hospitals: HTM 81 can be used instead of the dimensions have been extended to single
Approved Document. storey Schools and to the Shop/Commercial
purpose group.
B1
b. Fire alarms: B4
i. the Requirement has been expanded to i. Rooflights: separate Tables are given for Class 3
include fire alarm and fire detection systems; and TP(a)/(b) plastics rooflights and the provisions
relating to Class 3 rooflights on industrial
ii. the guidance forms a new Section 1 and buildings has been modified.
has been extended to loft conversions and
buildings other than dwellings.
B5
c. Alternative approaches: this guidance has been
j. Vehicle access:
moved from Section 3 to the “Introduction”
and expanded. i. specific guidance is now included for
single family houses and for blocks of flats
d. Door width: the definition has been modified
and maisonettes;
to align with that given in Approved Document
M and corresponding reductions made to ii. the 9m height in Table 20 has been increased
Table 5 “Widths of escape routes and exits”. to 11m.
e. Means of escape: k. Personnel access:
i. Dwellings – storeys not more than 4.5m i. modifications have been made to the heights
above ground level need to be provided at which firefighting shafts are needed,
with emergency egress windows; with corresponding reductions to the 20m
height in B1 (access lobbies & corridors),
ii. Single escape routes and exits – the limit
B3 (Table 12), B4 (Diagram 40) and
of 50 persons has been increased to 60;
Appendix A (Tables A2 & A3);
iii. Alternative escape routes – the 45° rule
ii. guidance is given regarding firefighting
has been changed;
shafts in blocks of flats and maisonettes.
iv. Minimum number of escape routes –
Table 4 has been simplified; Appendix A
v. Mixed use buildings – the guidance has l. Uninsulated glazed elements: table A4 has
been modified; been modified and extended.
vi. Door fastenings – more guidance is given; m. Notional designations of roof coverings:
vii. Escape lighting – changes have been bitumen felt pitched roof coverings have been
made in Table 9 regarding toilet deleted from table A5.
accommodation;
Appendix B
viii. Storeys divided into different uses – guidance
has been added to deal with storeys which n. Compartment walls: limits are now specified
are also used for the consumption of food on the use of uninsulated doors.
and/or drink by customers;
Appendix E
ix. Shop store rooms – guidance is given
on when these need to be enclosed in o. Fire separating element: this new definition has
fire-resisting construction. been added to support Sections 9 to 11 in B3.

B2 Appendix F
f. Special applications: guidance is given on p. This new Appendix gives guidance on insulating
the use of air supported structures, structures core panels.
covered with flexible membranes and PTFE
based materials.

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B
Contents
PAGE PAGE
USE OF GUIDANCE 5 Section 4: Design for horizontal escape
– buildings other than dwellings 35
General introduction: Fire safety 7 Introduction 35
Escape route design 35
MEANS OF WARNING AND ESCAPE
THE REQUIREMENT B1 10 Hospitals and other residential care
premises of Purpose Group 2a 41
GUIDANCE 11
Performance 11 Section 5: Design for vertical escape
Introduction 11 – buildings other than dwellings 42
Interaction with other legislation 11 Introduction 42
Management of premises 12 Number of escape stairs 42
Analysis of the problem 12 Width of escape stairs 42
Means of escape for disabled people 13 Calculation of minimum stair width 43
Security 13 Protection of escape stairs 46
Alternative approaches 13 Basement stairs 47
Use of the document 14 External escape stairs 47
Methods of measurement 14 Section 6: General provisions common
to buildings other than dwellinghouses 48
Section 1: Fire alarm and fire
detection systems 16 Introduction 48
Introduction 16 Protection of escape routes 48
Dwellings 16 Doors on escape routes 48
Buildings other than dwellings 18 Stairs 49
General 52
Section 2: Dwellinghouses 20 Lifts 53
Introduction 20 Mechanical ventilation and
General provisions 20 air conditioning systems 54
Provisions for escape from floors not Refuse chutes and storage 54
more than 4.5m above ground level 20 Shop store rooms 54
Additional provisions for houses with
a floor more than 4.5m above ground level 21 INTERNAL FIRE SPREAD (LININGS)
Loft conversions 23 THE REQUIREMENT B2 55
Section 3: Flats and maisonettes 26 GUIDANCE 56
Introduction 26 Performance 56
General provisions 26 Introduction 56
Provisions for escape from flats and Section 7: Wall and ceiling linings 57
maisonettes where the floor is not more Classification of linings 57
than 4.5m above ground level 27
Variations and special provisions 57
Additional provisions for flats and
maisonettes with a floor more than Thermoplastic materials 58
4.5m above ground level 27
INTERNAL FIRE SPREAD (STRUCTURE)
Means of escape in the common parts
of flats and maisonettes 30 THE REQUIREMENT B3 60
Number of escape routes 30 GUIDANCE 61
Common escape routes 32 Performance 61
Common stairs 33 Introduction 61
Protection of common stairs 33 Section 8: Loadbearing elements
Basement stairs 34 of structure 62
Stairs serving accommodation ancillary Introduction 62
to flats and maisonettes 34 Fire resistance standard 62
External escape stairs 34 Floors in domestic loft conversions 62
Dwellings in mixed use buildings 34 Raised storage areas 63
Conversion to flats 63

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B
PAGE PAGE
Section 9: Compartmentation 64 ACCESS AND FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE
Introduction 64 SERVICE THE REQUIREMENT B5 98
Provision of compartmentation 64 GUIDANCE 99
Construction of compartment walls and Performance 99
compartment floors 67 Introduction 99
Openings in compartmentation 69
Section 16: Fire Mains 100
Protected shafts 69
Introduction 100
Section 10: Concealed Provision of fire mains 100
spaces (cavities) 73 Number and location of fire mains 100
Introduction 73 Design and construction of fire mains 100
Provision of cavity barriers 73
Construction and fixings for cavity barriers 76 Section 17: Vehicle access 101
Maximum dimensions of concealed spaces 77 Introduction 101
Openings in cavity barriers 77 Buildings not fitted with fire mains 101
Buildings fitted with fire mains 104
Section 11: Protection of openings Design of access routes and hard standings 104
and fire stopping 79
Introduction 79 Section 18: Access to buildings
Openings for pipes 79 for firefighting personnel 105
Ventilating ducts 80 Introduction 105
Flues, etc. 80 Provision of firefighting shafts 105
Fire-stopping 80 Number and location of firefighting shafts 106
Design and construction of firefighting shafts 106
Section 12: Special provisions for car Rolling shutters in compartment walls 106
parks and shopping complexes 82
Introduction 82 Section 19: Venting of heat and
Car Parks 82 smoke from basements 107
Shopping complexes 83 Introduction 107
Provision of smoke outlets 107
EXTERNAL FIRE SPREAD Construction of outlet ducts or shafts 108
THE REQUIREMENT B4 84 Basement car parks 108
GUIDANCE 85
Performance 85 APPENDICES
Introduction 85 Appendix A: Performance of
Section 13: Construction of materials and structures 109
external walls 86 Introduction 109
Introduction 86 Fire resistance 109
Fire resistance standard 86 Roofs 110
Portal frames 86 Non-combustible materials 110
External surfaces 87 Materials of limited combustibility 110
External wall construction 87 Internal linings 110
Thermoplastic materials 111
Section 14: Space separation 89 Fire test methods 111
Introduction 89
Boundaries 90 Appendix B: Fire doors 120
Unprotected areas 91 Appendix C: Methods of measurement 122
Methods for calculating acceptable Appendix D: Purpose groups 124
unprotected area 93
Appendix E: Definitions 126
Section 15: Roof coverings 95
Appendix F: Fire behaviour of insulating
Introduction 95
core panels used for internal structures 130
Classification of performance 95
Separation distances 95 Appendix G: Standards referred to 132
Other publications referred to 135
Index 137

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B
PAGE PAGE
DIAGRAMS 29. Protected shafts 71
30. Uninsulated glazed screen separating
B1 protected shaft from lobby or corridor 72
1. Measurement of door width 15 31. Interrupting concealed spaces (cavities) 73
2. Ground or basement storey exit into an 32. Cavity walls excluded from provisions for
enclosed space 21 cavity barriers 75
3. Alternative arrangements for final exits 22 33. Alternative arrangements in roof space
4. Fire separation in houses with more than over protected stairway in a house
one floor over 4.5m above ground level 22 with a floor more than 4.5m above
5. Alternatives for the fire separation of the ground level 75
stair and new storey in house conversion 24 34. Corridor enclosure alternatives 76
6. Position of dormer window or rooflight 35. Fire-resisting ceiling below
suitable for emergency egress purposes concealed space 78
from a loft conversion of a 2-storey 36. Provisions for cavity barriers in
dwellinghouse 25 double-skinned insulated roof sheeting 78
7. Flat where all habitable rooms have 37. Pipes penetrating structure 80
direct access to an entrance hall 27
38. Enclosure for drainage or water
8. Flat with restricted travel distance from supply pipes 81
furthest point to entrance 27
39. Flues penetrating compartment
9. Flat with an alternative exit, but where all walls or floors 81
habitable rooms have no direct access to
an entrance hall 28 B4
10. Maisonette with alternative exits 40. Provisions for external surfaces of walls 88
from each habitable room, except
41. Relevant boundary 89
at entrance level 28
42. Notional boundary 90
11. Maisonette with protected entrance
hall and landing 29 43. Status of combustible surface material
as unprotected area 91
12. Flats or maisonettes served by one
common stair 30 44. Unprotected areas which may be
disregarded in assessing the separation
13. Flats or maisonettes served by more
distance from the boundary 92
than one common stair 31
45. The effect of a canopy on
14. Common escape route in small single
separation distance 92
stair building 31
46. Permitted unprotected areas in small
15. Travel distance in dead-end condition 37
residential buildings 94
16. Alternative escape routes 37
47. Limitations on spacing and size of
17. Inner room and access room 38 plastics rooflights having a Class 3
18. Exits in a central core 38 or TP(b) lower surface 95
19. Dead-end corridors 40
B5
20. Progressive horizontal evacuation 41
48. Example of building footprint
21. External protection to protected stairways 50 and perimeter 102
22. Fire resistance of areas adjacent to 49. Relationship between building and
external stairs 51 hard standing/access roads for high
reach fire appliances 103
B2
50. Turning facilities 104
23. Lighting diffuser in relation to ceiling 58
51. Provision of firefighting shafts 105
24. Layout restrictions on Class 3 plastics
rooflights, TP(b) rooflights and TP(b) 52. Components of a firefighting shaft 106
lighting diffusers 59 53. Fire-resisting construction for smoke
outlet shafts 107
B3
25. Separation between garage and APPENDIX C
dwelling house 65 C1. Cubic Capacity 122
26. Compartment floors: illustration of C2. Area 122
guidance in paragraph 9.20 66 C3. Height of building 123
27. Compartment walls and compartment C4. Number of storeys 123
floors with reference to relevant
C5. Height of top storey in building 123
paragraphs in Section 9 68
28. Junction of compartment wall with roof 70 APPENDIX E
E1. Recessed car parking areas 129

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B
PAGE PAGE
TABLES APPENDICES
B1 A1. Specific provisions of test for fire
resistance of elements of structure etc. 112-113
1. Floor space factors 15
A2. Minimum periods of fire resistance 114
2. Limitations on distance of travel
in common areas of flat and A3. Limitations on fire-protecting
maisonette buildings 32 suspended ceilings 115
3. Limitations on travel distance 36 A4. Limitations on the use of uninsulated
glazed elements on escape routes 116
4. Minimum number of escape routes
and exits from a room, tier or storey 37 A5. Notional designations of roof coverings 117
5. Widths of escape routes and exits 39 A6. Use and definitions of non-combustible
materials 118
6. Minimum width of escape stairs 43
A7. Use and definitions of materials of
7. Capacity of a stair for basements limited combustibility 118
and for simultaneous evacuation
of the building 44 A8. Typical performance ratings of
some generic materials and products 119
8. Minimum width of stairs designed
for phased evacuation 45 B1. Provisions for fire doors 121
9. Provisions for escape lighting 53 D1. Classification of purpose
B2 groups 125
10. Classification of linings 57
11. Limitations applied to thermoplastic
rooflights and lighting diffusers in suspended
ceilings and Class 3 plastics rooflights. 59
B3
12. Maximum dimensions of building or
compartment (non-residential buildings) 67
13. Provision of cavity barriers 74
14. Maximum dimensions of cavities in non-
domestic buildings (purpose groups 2-7) 75
15. Maximum nominal internal diameter of pipes
passing through a compartment wall/floor 79
B4
16. Permitted unprotected areas in small
buildings or compartments 94
17. Limitations on roof coverings 96
18. Class 3 plastics rooflights: limitations on
use and boundary distance 97
19. TP(a) and TP(b) plastics rooflights:
limitations on use and boundary distance 97
B5
20. Fire service vehicle access to buildings
(excluding blocks of flats) not fitted with
fire mains 101
21. Typical fire service vehicle access route
specification 104
22. Minimum number of firefighting shafts in
building fitted with sprinklers 106

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THE BUILDING REGULATIONS 1991 B

Use of Guidance
THE APPROVED DOCUMENTS MATERIALS AND WORKMANSHIP
This document is one of a series that has been Any building work which is subject to the
approved by the Secretary of State as practical requirements imposed by Schedule 1 of the
guidance on meeting the requirements of Schedule 1 Building Regulations should, in accordance with
and regulation 7 of the Building Regulations 1991 regulation 7, be carried out with proper materials
(SI 1991 No 2768) as amended by the Building and in a workmanlike manner.
Regulations (Amendment) Regulations 1992
You may show that you have complied with
(SI 1992 No 1180), the Building Regulations
regulation 7 in a number of ways. These include the
(Amendment) Regulations 1994 (SI 1994 No 1850),
appropriate use of a product bearing CE marking
the Building Regulations (Amendment) Regulations
in accordance with the Construction Products
1995 (SI 1995 No 1356), the Building Regulations
Directive (89/106/EEC)1 as amended by the CE
(Amendment) Regulations 1997 (SI 1997 No 1904),
marking Directive (93/68/EEC),2 or a product
the Building Regulations (Amendment) Regulations
complying with an appropriate technical specification
1998 (SI 1998 No 2561), the Building Regulations
(as defined in those Directives), a British Standard,
(Amendment) Regulations 1999 (SI 1999 No 77)
or an alternative national technical specification
and the Building Regulations (Amendment) (No 2)
of any state which is a contracting party to the
Regulations 1999 (SI 1999 No 3410). It replaces
European Economic Area which, in use, is equivalent,
Approved Document B (1992 Edition).
or a product covered by an national or European
At the back of this document is a list of certificate issued by a European Technical
those documents currently published by the Approval Issuing body, and the conditions of use
Department of the Environment, Transport and are in accordance with the terms of the certificate.
the Regions and the Welsh Office which have You will find further guidance in the Approved
been approved for the purpose of the Building Document supporting regulation 7 on materials
Regulations 1991. and workmanship.
The Approved Documents are intended to provide
guidance for some of the more common building Independent certification schemes
situations. However, there may well be alternative There are many UK product certification schemes.
ways of achieving compliance with the requirements. Such schemes certify compliance with the
Thus there is no obligation to adopt any requirements of a recognised document which is
particular solution contained in an Approved appropriate to the purpose for which the material
Document if you prefer to meet the relevant is to be used. Materials which are not so certified
requirement in some other way. may still conform to a relevant standard.
Many certification bodies which approve such
Other requirements schemes are accredited by UKAS.
The guidance contained in an Approved Document
Since the fire performance of a product,
relates only to the particular requirements of the
component or structure is dependent upon
Regulations which that document addresses. The
satisfactory site installation and maintenance,
building work will also have to comply with the
independent schemes of certification and
Requirements of any other relevant paragraphs
registration of installers and maintenance firms
in Schedule 1 to the Regulations.
of such will provide confidence in the appropriate
There are Approved Documents which give standard of workmanship being provided.
guidance on each of the other requirements in
Schedule 1 and on regulation 7. Technical specifications
Building Regulations are made for specific
LIMITATION ON REQUIREMENTS purposes: health and safety, energy conservation
and the welfare and convenience of disabled
In accordance with regulation 8, the requirements people. Standards and technical approvals are
in Parts A to K and N of Schedule 1 to the Building relevant guidance to the extent that they relate
Regulations do not require anything to be done to these considerations. However, they may also
except for the purpose of securing reasonable address other aspects of performance such as
standards of health and safety for persons in or serviceability, or aspects which although they
about the building. relate to health and safety are not covered by
the Regulations.

1 As implemented by the Construction Products Regulations 1991 (SI 1991 No 1620)

2 As implemented by the Construction Products (Amendment) Regulations 1994 (SI 1994 No 3051)

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B THE BUILDING REGULATIONS 1991

When an Approved Document makes reference
to a named standard, the relevant version of the
standard is the one listed at the end of the publication.
However, if this version of the standard has been
revised or updated by the issuing standards body,
the new version may be used as a source of
guidance provided it continues to address the
relevant requirements of the Regulations.
The appropriate use of a product which complies
with a European Technical Approval as defined in
the Construction Products Directive will meet the
relevant requirements.

The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)

Regulations 1992
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Regulations 1992 contain some requirements
which affect building design. The main requirements
are now covered by the Building Regulations, but
for further information see: Workplace health,
safety and welfare, The Workplace (Health, Safety
and Welfare) Regulations 1992, Approved Code
of Practice and Guidance; The Health and Safety
Commission, L24; Published by HMSO 1992;
ISBN 0-11-886333-9.
The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Regulations 1992 apply to the common parts of
flats and similar buildings if people such as cleaners,
wardens and caretakers are employed to work in
these common parts. Where the requirements of
the Building Regulations that are covered by this
Part do not apply to dwellings, the provisions may
still be required in the situations described above
in order to satisfy the Workplace Regulations.

The Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare)

Regulations 1996
The purpose of this Approved Document is to
provide guidance on the fire safety requirements
for the completed building. It does not address
the risk of fire during the construction work which
is covered by the Construction (Health, Safety
and Welfare) Regulations 1996. HSE have issued
the following guidance on these Regulations:
Construction Information Sheet No 51 Construction
fire safety; and HSG 168 Fire safety in construction
work (ISBN 0-7176-1332-1).
When the construction work is being carried out
on a completed building which, apart from the
construction site part of the building, remains
occupied, the fire authority are responsible for
the enforcement of the 1996 Regulations in
respect of fire. Where the building is unoccupied,
the Health and Safety Executive are responsible
for enforcement.

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B
General Introduction
FIRE SAFETY Appendices: provisions common to more
than one of Part B’s requirements
Arrangement of Sections 0.5 Guidance on matters that refer to more than
0.1 The functional requirements B1 to B5 of one of the Sections is in a series of Appendices,
Schedule 1 of the Building Regulations are dealt with covering the following subjects:
separately in one or more Sections. The requirement Appendix A. fire performance of materials and
is reproduced at the start of the relevant Sections, structures;
followed by an introduction to the subject.
Appendix B. provisions regarding fire doors;
0.2 The provisions set out in this document deal
with different aspects of fire safety, with the Appendix C. methods of measurement;
following aims. Appendix D. a classification of purpose groups;
B1: To ensure satisfactory provision of means of Appendix E. definitions;
giving an alarm of fire and a satisfactory standard
of means of escape for persons in the event of Appendix F. insulating core panels.
fire in a building.
Purpose groups
B2: That fire spread over the internal linings of
buildings is inhibited. 0.6 Much of the guidance in this document is
related to the use of the building. The use
B3: To ensure the stability of buildings in the classifications are termed purpose groups, and
event of fire; to ensure that there is a sufficient they are described in Appendix D.
degree of fire separation within buildings and
between adjoining buildings; and to inhibit the
unseen spread of fire and smoke in concealed
Fire performance of materials and structures
spaces in buildings. 0.7 Much of the guidance throughout this
document is given in terms of performance in
B4: That external walls and roofs have adequate
relation to standard fire test methods. Details are
resistance to the spread of fire over the external
drawn together in Appendix A to which reference
envelope, and that spread of fire from one
is made where appropriate. In the case of fire
building to another is restricted.
protection systems reference is made to standards
B5: To ensure satisfactory access for fire for systems design and installation. Standards
appliances to buildings and the provision of referred to are listed in Appendix G.
facilities in buildings to assist fire fighters in the
saving of life of people in and around buildings. Fire doors
0.3 Whilst guidance appropriate to each of these 0.8 Guidance in respect of fire doors is set out
aspects is set out separately in this document, in Appendix B.
many of the provisions are closely interlinked. For
example, there is a close link between the provisions Methods of measurement
for means of escape (B1) and those for the control
of fire growth (B2), fire containment (B3), and 0.9 Some form of measurement is an integral part
facilities for the fire service (B5). Similarly there are of much of the guidance in this document, and
links between B3 and the provisions for controlling methods are set out in Appendix C. Aspects of
external fire spread (B4), and between B3 and B5. measurement specific to means of escape are
Interaction between these different requirements covered in the introduction to B1 (paragraphs
should be recognised where variations in the [Link] onwards).
standard of provision are being considered. A higher
standard under one of the requirements may be Definitions
of benefit in respect of one or more of the other 0.10 The definitions are given in Appendix E.
requirements. The guidance in the document as a
whole should be considered as a package aimed Fire safety engineering
at achieving an acceptable standard of fire safety.
0.11 Fire safety engineering can provide an
0.4 In the guidance on B1 the provisions for alternative approach to fire safety. It may be the
dwellings are separated from those for all other only practical way to achieve a satisfactory
types of building, because there are important standard of fire safety in some large and complex
differences in the approach that has been adopted. buildings, and in buildings containing different
Dwellinghouses (Section 2) pose different problems uses, eg airport terminals. Fire safety engineering
from flats and maisonettes, which are therefore may also be suitable for solving a problem with an
treated separately in Section 3. aspect of the building design which otherwise
follows the provisions in this document.

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B
British Standard Draft for Development (DD) 240 0.15 It is possible to use quantitative techniques
Fire safety engineering in buildings provides a to evaluate risk and hazard. Some factors in the
framework and guidance on the design and measures listed above can be given numerical
assessment of fire safety measures in buildings. values in some circumstances. The assumptions
Following the discipline of DD 240 should enable made when quantitative methods are used need
designers and building control bodies to be aware careful assessment.
of the relevant issues, the need to consider the
complete fire-safety system, and to follow a Shopping complexes and buildings
disciplined analytical framework. containing one or more atria
0.12 Some variation of the provisions set out in 0.16 An example of an overall approach to fire
this document may also be appropriate where safety can be found in BS 5588: Part 10 Fire
Part B applies to existing buildings, and particularly precautions in the design, construction and use of
in buildings of special architectural or historic buildings. Code of practice for shopping complexes,
interest, where adherence to the guidance in this which is referred to in Section 12.
document might prove unduly restrictive. In such
cases it would be appropriate to take into account Similarly a building containing an atrium passing
a range of fire safety features, some of which are through compartment floors may need special fire
dealt with in this document, and some of which safety measures. Guidance on suitable fire safety
are not addressed in any detail, and to set these measures in these circumstances is to be found in
against an assessment of the hazard and risk BS 5588: Part 7 Code of practice for the incorporation
peculiar to the particular case. of atria in buildings. (See also paragraph 9.8.)
0.13 Factors that should be taken into account Hospitals
include:
0.17 The design of fire safety in hospitals is
a. the anticipated probability of a fire occurring; covered by Health Technical Memorandum (HTM)
b. the anticipated fire severity; 81 Fire precautions in new hospitals (revised 1996)
Where the guidance in that document is followed,
c. the ability of a structure to resist the spread of Part B of the Building Regulations will be satisfied.
fire and smoke;
d. the consequential danger to people in and Property protection
around the building. 0.18 Building Regulations are intended to ensure
0.14 A wide variety of measures could be considered that a reasonable standard of life safety is
and incorporated to a greater or lesser extent, as provided, in case of fire. The protection of
appropriate in the circumstances. These include: property, including the building itself, may require
additional measures, and insurers will in general
a. the adequacy of means to prevent fire; seek their own higher standards, before accepting
b. early fire warning by an automatic detection the insurance risk. Guidance is given in the LPC
and warning system; Design guide for the fire protection of buildings.
c. the standard of means of escape; Guidance for asset protection in the Civil and
Defence Estates is given in the Crown Fire
d. provision of smoke control; Standards published by the Property Advisers to
e. control of the rate of growth of a fire; the Civil Estate (PACE).
f. the adequacy of the structure to resist the Material alteration
effects of a fire;
0.19 An alteration which results in a building being
g. the degree of fire containment; less satisfactory in relation to compliance with the
h. fire separation between buildings or parts requirements of Parts B1, B3, B4 or B5, than it
of buildings; was before, is controllable under Regulations 3
(meaning of building work) and 4 (requirements
i. the standard of active measures for fire relating to building work) of the Building
extinguishment or control; Regulations, as a material alteration.
j. facilities to assist the fire service;
k. availability of powers to require staff training in Performance of protection systems,
fire safety and fire routines, eg under the Fire materials and structures
Precautions Act 1971, the Fire Precautions 0.20 Since the performance of a system, product,
(Workplace) Regulations 1997, or registration component or structure is dependent upon
or licensing procedures; satisfactory site installation, testing and maintenance,
l. consideration of the availability of any continuing independent schemes of certification and registration
control under other legislation that could ensure of installers and maintenance firms of such will
continued maintenance of such systems; provide confidence in the appropriate standard
of workmanship being provided.
m. management.

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B
Confidence that the required level of performance
can be achieved, will be demonstrated by the use
of a system, material, product or structure which
is provided under the arrangements of a product
conformity certification scheme and an accreditation
and registration of installers scheme.
Third party accredited product conformity certification
schemes not only provide a means of identifying
materials and designs of systems, products or
structures which have demonstrated that they have
the requisite performance in fire, but additionally
provide confidence that the systems, materials,
products or structures actually supplied are
provided to the same specification or design
as that tested/assessed.
Third party accreditation and registration of installers
of systems, materials, products or structures provide
a means of ensuring that installations have been
conducted by knowledgeable contractors to
appropriate standards, thereby increasing the
reliability of the anticipated performance in fire.

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B1 MEANS OF WARNING AND ESCAPE

The Requirement
This Approved Document, which takes effect on
1 July 2000, deals with the following Requirement
from Part B of Schedule 1 to the Building
Regulations 1991.

Requirement Limits on application

Means of warning and escape

B1. The building shall be designed and constructed so that Requirement B1 does not apply to
there are appropriate provisions for the early warning of fire, any prison provided under section 33
and appropriate means of escape in case of fire from the of the Prisons Act 1952 (power to
building to a place of safety outside the building capable of provide prisons etc.).
being safely and effectively used at all material times.

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INTRODUCTION B1
Guidance
Performance (other than dwellings) to which the guidance
contained in this document applies. The Fire
In the Secretary of State’s view the requirement of Authority is responsible for the enforcement of
B1 will be met if: both the above Act and the Regulations.
a. there are routes of sufficient number and There are also other Acts and Regulations that
capacity, which are suitably located to enable impose fire safety requirements as a condition of a
persons to escape to a place of safety in the licence or registration. Whilst this other legislation
event of fire; is enforced by a number of different authorities, in
the majority of cases the applicant and/or enforcing
b. the routes are sufficiently protected from the authority is required to consult the Fire Authority
effects of fire by enclosure where necessary; before a licence or registration is granted.
c. the routes are adequately lit; [Link] Under the Fire Precautions Act 1971, the
d. the exits are suitably signed; and if Fire Authority cannot, as a condition for issuing
a certificate, make requirements for structural or
e. there are appropriate facilities to either limit other alterations to the fire precautions arrangements,
the ingress of smoke to the escape route(s) if the aspects of the fire precautions concerned
or to restrict the fire and remove smoke; have been the subject of a Building Regulation
all to an extent necessary that is dependent on approval. However if the Fire Authority is satisfied
the use of the building, its size and height; and that the fire precautions are inadequate by reason
of matters that were not subject to a Building
f. there is sufficient means for giving early Regulation approval or were not known at the
warning of fire for persons in the building. time of the approval, then the Fire Authority is
not barred from making requirements.
Introduction In those premises subject to the Fire Precautions
(Workplace) Regulations 1997 the occupier is
B1.i These provisions relate to building work required to undertake and continually review a risk
and material changes of use which are subject assessment to ensure that the employees within
to the functional requirement B1, and they may the premises are not placed at risk from fire. This
therefore affect new or existing buildings. They risk assessment must allow for changes to the fire
are concerned with the measures necessary to safety measures provided, subject to the risks
ensure reasonable facilities for means of escape in identified. In premises subject to these Regulations,
case of fire. They are only concerned with structural as in the case of premises subject to the other
fire precautions where these are necessary to legislation containing fire safety requirements, the
safeguard escape routes. enforcing authority is not subject to any restriction
They assume that in the design of the building, on the provision of additional fire safety measures.
reliance should not be placed on external rescue It should be noted that it is possible for a building
by the fire service. This Approved Document has to be subject to the Fire Precautions Act, the Fire
been prepared on the basis that, in an emergency, Precautions (Workplace) Regulations and other
the occupants of any part of a building should be legislation imposing fire safety requirements at the
able to escape safely without any external assistance. same time.
Special considerations, however, apply to some Taking the above into account, it is therefore
institutional buildings in which the principle of recommended that the applicant ensures that the
evacuation without assistance is not practical. fire precautions incorporated into any proposed
It should also be noted that the guidance for a building works meet the requirements of all those
typical 1 or 2 storey dwelling is limited to the authorities that may be involved in the enforcement
provision of smoke alarms and to the provision of other fire safety related legislation, and that
of openable windows for emergency egress. consultation with those authorities takes place in
conjunction with the Building Regulation approval.
In addition, a requirement for consultation between
Interaction with other legislation enforcing bodies is contained in the Fire Precautions
Act 1971 and the Fire Precautions (Workplace)
[Link] Attention is drawn to the fact that there may Regulations 1997.
be legislation, other than the Building Regulations,
imposing requirements for means of escape in Guidance on the consultation procedures that
case of fire and other fire safety measures, with should be adopted to ensure that the requirements
which the building must comply, and which will of all enforcing authorities are addressed at
come into force when the building is occupied. Building Regulation Approval stage is contained in
Building Regulation and Fire Safety – Procedural
The Fire Precautions Act 1971 and the Fire Guidance, published jointly by the Department of
Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 as the Environment, Transport and the Regions, the
amended in 1999, will apply to certain premises Home Office and the Welsh Office.

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B1 INTRODUCTION
[Link] Under the Health and Safety at Work etc B1.x The primary danger associated with fire in
Act 1974 the Health and Safety Executive may its early stages is not flame but the smoke and
have similar responsibilities for certification in the noxious gases produced by the fire. They cause
case of highly specialised industrial and storage most of the casualties and may also obscure the
premises. way to escape routes and exits. Measures designed
to provide safe means of escape must therefore
B1.v Under the Housing Act 1985 the local authority
provide appropriate arrangements to limit the
is obliged to require means of escape in case of
rapid spread of smoke and fumes.
fire in certain types of houses which are occupied
by persons not forming a single household
(Houses in Multiple Occupation). Criteria for means of escape
However, compliance with the guidance in this [Link] The basic principles for the design of
document will enable a newly constructed or means of escape are:
converted House in Multiple Occupation to achieve a. that there should be alternative means of
an acceptable standard of fire safety. escape from most situations;
[Link] There are a number of other Statutes b. where direct escape to a place of safety is
enforced by the local authority or the fire authority not possible, it should be possible to reach a
that may be applied to premises of specific uses place of relative safety, such as a protected
once they are occupied. stairway, which is on a route to an exit, within
a reasonable travel distance. In such cases
the means of escape will consist of two parts,
Management of premises the first being unprotected in accommodation
and circulation areas, and the second in
[Link] This Approved Document has been written protected stairways (and in some circumstances
on the assumption that the building concerned protected corridors).
will be properly managed. Failure to take proper
management responsibility may result in the The ultimate place of safety is the open air clear of
prosecution of a building owner or occupier under the effects of the fire. However, in modern buildings
legislation such as the Fire Precautions Act or the which are large and complex, reasonable safety
Health and Safety at Work etc Act, and/or may be reached within the building, provided
prohibition of the use of the premises. suitable planning and protection measures are
incorporated.
Analysis of the problem [Link] The following are not acceptable as means
of escape:
[Link] The design of means of escape, and the a. lifts (except for a suitably designed and
provision of other fire safety measures such as a installed evacuation lift that may be used for
fire alarm system (where appropriate), should be the evacuation of disabled people, in a fire);
based on an assessment of the risk to the occupants
should a fire occur. The assessment should take b. portable ladders and throw-out ladders; and
into account the nature of the building structure, c. manipulative apparatus and appliances:
the use of the building, the processes undertaken eg fold down ladders and chutes.
and/or materials stored in the building; the potential
sources of fire; the potential of fire spread through Escalators should not be counted as providing
the building; and the standard of fire safety predictable exit capacity, although it is recognised
management proposed. Where it is not possible that they are likely to be used by people who are
to identify with any certainty any of these elements escaping. Mechanised walkways could be accepted,
a judgement as to the likely level of provision must and their capacity assessed on the basis of their
be made. use as a walking route, while in the static mode.
[Link] Fires do not normally start in two different Alternative means of escape
places in a building at the same time. Initially a
fire will create a hazard only in the part in which it [Link] There is always the possibility of the path
starts and it is unlikely, at this stage, to involve a of a single escape route being rendered impassable
large area. The fire may subsequently spread to by fire, smoke or fumes and, ideally, people should
other parts of the building, usually along the be able to turn their backs on a fire wherever it
circulation routes. The items that are the first to occurs and travel away from it to a final exit or
be ignited are often furnishings and other items protected escape route leading to a place of
not controlled by the regulations. It is less likely safety. However in certain conditions a single
that the fire will originate in the structure of direction of escape (a dead end) can be accepted
the building itself and the risk of it originating as providing reasonable safety. These conditions
accidentally in circulation areas, such as corridors, depend on the use of the building and its associated
lobbies or stairways, is limited, provided that the fire risk, the size and height of the building, the
combustible content of such areas is restricted. extent of the dead end, and the numbers of
persons accommodated within the dead end.

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INTRODUCTION B1
Unprotected and protected escape routes It is not appropriate to seek to control the type of
lock used on front doors to dwellings under the
[Link] The unprotected part of an escape route Building Regulations. Some more detailed guidance
is that part which a person has to traverse before on door security in buildings other than single
reaching either the safety of a final exit or the family dwelling houses is given in paragraphs
comparative safety of a protected escape route, 6.11 and 6.12.
ie a protected corridor or protected stairway.
Unprotected escape routes should be limited in
extent so that people do not have to travel excessive Alternative approaches
distances while exposed to the immediate danger
of fire and smoke. [Link] The Building Regulations requirements
for means of escape will be satisfied by following
Even with protected horizontal escape routes the the relevant guidance given in either the publications
distance to a final exit or protected stairway needs in paragraphs [Link] – [Link] or in Sections 2 – 6
to be limited because the structure does not give of this Approved Document.
protection indefinitely.
[Link] Protected stairways are designed to provide General
virtually ‘fire sterile’ areas which lead to places of [Link] BS 5588: Part 0 Fire precautions in the
safety outside the building. Once inside a protected design, construction and use of buildings, Guide
stairway, a person can be considered to be safe to fire safety codes of practice for particular
from immediate danger from flame and smoke. They premises/applications includes reference to various
can then proceed to a place of safety at their own codes and guides dealing with the provision of
pace. To enable this to be done, flames, smoke and means of escape. If one of those codes or guides is
gases must be excluded from these escape routes, adopted, the relevant recommendations concerning
as far as is reasonably possible, by fire-resisting means of escape in case of fire in the particular
structures or by an appropriate smoke control publication should be followed, rather than a mixture
system, or by a combination of both these methods. of the publication and provisions in the relevant
This does not preclude the use of unprotected sections of this Approved Document. However,
stairs for day-to-day circulation, but they can only there may be circumstances where it is necessary
play a very limited role in terms of means of escape to use one publication to supplement another,
due to their vunerability in fire situations. as with the use in Section 18 of BS 5588: Part 5
Code of practice for firefighting stairs and lifts.
Means of escape for Note: Buildings for some particular industrial and
disabled people commercial activities presenting a special fire hazard
eg those involved with the sale of fuels, may require
[Link] Part M of the Regulations, Access and additional fire precautions to those detailed in this
facilities for disabled people, requires reasonable Approved Document. Reference to guidance for such
provision for access by disabled people to certain building applications is given in BS 5588: Part 0.
buildings, or parts of buildings. However it may
not be necessary to incorporate special structural Hospitals
measures to aid means of escape for the disabled. [Link] In parts of hospitals designed to be used
Management arrangements to provide assisted by patients, and in similar accommodation such
escape may be all that is necessary. BS 5588: Part 8 as nursing homes and homes for the elderly,
Fire precautions in the design, construction and use where there are people who are bedridden or who
of buildings, Code of practice for means of escape have very restricted mobility, the principle of total
for disabled people, gives guidance on means of evacuation of a building in the event of fire may
escape for disabled people in all premises other be inappropriate. It is also unrealistic to suppose
than dwellings. It introduces the concept of refuges that all patients will leave without assistance.
and the use of an evacuation lift, and stresses the
need for effective management of the evacuation. In this and other ways the specialised nature of
some health care premises demands a different
approach to the provision of means of escape,
Security from much of that embodied by the guidance in
this Approved Document.
[Link] The need for easy and rapid evacuation
of a building in case of fire may conflict with the NHS Estates has prepared a set of guidance
control of entry and exit in the interest of security. documents on fire precautions in Health Care
Measures intended to prevent unauthorised access buildings, under the general title of “Firecode”,
can also hinder entry of the fire service to rescue taking into account the particular characteristics
people trapped by fire. of these buildings. These documents may also
be used for non-NHS health care premises.
Potential conflicts should be identified and resolved
at the design stage and not left to ad hoc expedients The provision of means of escape in new hospitals
after completion. The architectural liaison officers should therefore follow the guidance in Firecode
attached to most police forces are a valuable HTM 81 Fire precautions in new hospitals. Where
source of advice. work to existing hospitals is concerned with means

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B1 INTRODUCTION
of escape, the guidance in the appropriate section Use of the document
of the relevant Firecode should be followed.
Attention is also drawn to the Home Office Draft [Link] Section 1 deals with fire alarm and fire
guide to fire precautions in existing residential detection systems in all buildings. Sections 2 & 3
care premises which is under review. deal with means of escape from dwellings and
Where a house of one or two storeys is converted Sections 4 & 5 with buildings other than dwellings.
for use as an unsupervised Group Home for not Section 2 is about dwellinghouses and Section 3
more than 6 mentally impaired or mentally ill people, is on flats and maisonettes. Section 4 concerns
it should be regarded as a purpose group 1(c) the design of means of escape on one level (the
building if the means of escape are provided in horizontal phase in multi-storey buildings). Section 5
accordance with HTM 88 Guide to fire precautions deals with stairways and the vertical phase of the
in NHS housing in the community for mentally escape route. Section 6 gives guidance on matters
handicapped (or mentally ill) people. Where the common to all parts of the means of escape,
building is new, it may be more appropriate to other than in houses.
regard it as being in purpose group 2(b).
Note: Firecode contains managerial and other fire Methods of measurement
safety provisions which are outside the scope of
building regulations. [Link] The following methods of measurement
apply specifically to B1. Other aspects of
Shopping complexes measurement applicable to Part B in general are
given in Appendix C.
[Link] Although the guidance in this Approved
Document may be readily applied to individual Occupant capacity
shops, shopping complexes present a different
set of escape problems. A suitable approach is [Link] The occupant capacity of a room, storey,
given in section 4 of BS 5588: Part 10: 1991 Fire building or part of a building is:
precautions in the design, construction and use of a. the maximum number of persons it is designed
buildings, Code of practice for shopping complexes. to hold; or
Note: BS 5588: Part 10 applies more restrictive b. the number calculated by dividing the area of
provisions to units with only one exit in covered room or storey(s) (m2) by a floor space factor
shopping complexes than given in BS 5588: Part (m2 per person) such as those given in Table 1
11 Code of practice for shops, offices, industrial, for guidance.
storage and other similar buildings.
Note: ‘area’ excludes stair enclosures, lifts,
Assembly buildings sanitary accommodation and any other fixed part
of the building structure (but counters and display
[Link] There are particular problems that arise units etc should not be excluded).
when people are limited in their ability to escape
by fixed seating. This may occur at sports events, Travel distance
theatres, lecture halls and conference centres etc.
Guidance on this and other aspects of means of [Link] Travel distance is measured by way of
escape in assembly buildings is given in sections the shortest route which if:
3 and 5 of BS 5588: Part 6: 1991 Code of practice for a. there is fixed seating or other fixed obstructions,
places of assembly and the relevant recommendations is along the centre line of the seatways and
concerning means of escape in case of fire of that gangways;
code should be followed, in appropriate cases.
The guidance given in the Guide to fire precautions b. it includes a stair, is along the pitch line on the
in existing places of entertainment and like premises centre line of travel.
(HMSO) may also be followed.
In the case of buildings to which the Safety of
Width
Sports Grounds Act 1975 applies, the guidance [Link] The width of:
in the Guide to safety at sports grounds (HMSO)
a. a door (or doorway) is the clear width when
should also be followed.
the door is open (see Diagram 1);
Schools and other education buildings b. an escape route is the width at 1500mm
above floor level when defined by walls or,
[Link] By following the guidance in this Approved elsewhere, the minimum width of passage
Document it is possible to meet the fire safety available between any fixed obstructions;
objectives of the Department for Education and
Employment’s constructional standards for schools. c. a stair is the clear width between the walls or
balustrades.

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INTRODUCTION B1
Notes:
Diagram
Diagram 1
3 Measurement
A of door width
1. Door hardware, handrails and strings which do
See para [Link]
not intrude more than 100mm into these widths
may be ignored (see Diagram 1).
2. The rails used for guiding a stair lift may be door hardware
ignored when considering the width of a stair. may be ignored
However, it is important that the chair or carriage
is able to be parked in a position that does not
cause an obstruction to either the stair or landing.

minimum clear opening width

Table 1 Floor space factors (1)

Floor space factor
Type of accommodation (2)(3) m2/person
1. Standing spectator areas, Bars without seating and similar refreshment areas 0.3
2. Amusement arcade, Assembly hall (including a general purpose place of assembly),
Bingo hall, Club, Crush hall, Dance floor or hall, Venue for pop concert and similar events 0.5
3. Concourse, Queuing area or Shopping mall (4) 0.7
4. Committee room, Common room, Conference room, Dining room, Licensed betting
office (public area), Lounge or bar (other than in 1 above), Meeting room, Reading room,
Restaurant, Staff room or Waiting room (5) 1.0
5. Exhibition hall or Studio (film, radio, television, recording) 1.5
6. Skating rink 2.0
7. Shop sales area (6) 2.0
8. Art gallery, Dormitory, Factory production area, Museum or Workshop 5.0
9. Office 6.0
10. Shop sales area (7) 7.0
11. Kitchen or Library 7.0
12. Bedroom or Study-bedroom 8.0
13. Bed-sitting room, Billiards or snooker room or hall 10.0
14. Storage and warehousing 30.0
15. Car park two persons per parking space
Notes:
1. As an alternative to using the values in the table, the floor 5. Alternatively the occupant capacity may be taken as the
space factor may be determined by reference to actual data number of fixed seats provided, if the occupants will normally
taken from similar premises. Where appropriate, the data be seated.
should reflect the average occupant density at a peak 6. Shops excluding those under item 10, but including –
trading time of year. supermarkets and department stores (main sales areas),
2. Where accommodation is not directly covered by the shops for personal services such as hairdressing and shops
descriptions given, a reasonable value based on a similar for the delivery or collection of goods for cleaning, repair or
use may be selected. other treatment or for members of the public themselves
3. Where any part of the building is to be used for more than carrying out such cleaning, repair or other treatment.
one type of accommodation, the most onerous factor(s) 7. Shops (excluding those in covered shopping complexes but
should be applied. Where the building contains different including department stores) trading predominantly in furniture,
types of accommodation, the occupancy of each different floor coverings, cycles, prams, large domestic appliances or
area should be calculated using the relevant space factor. other bulky goods, or trading on a wholesale self-selection
4. Refer to section 4 of BS 5588: Part 10: 1991 Code of basis (cash and carry).
practice for shopping complexes for detailed guidance on
the calculation of occupancy in common public areas in
shopping complexes.

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B1 FIRE ALARMS
Section 1
FIRE ALARM AND FIRE Large houses
DETECTION SYSTEMS 1.5 A house may be regarded as large if any of its
storeys exceed 200m2.
Introduction 1.6 A large house of more than 3 storeys (including
basement storeys) should be fitted with an L2
1.1 Provisions are made in this section for system as described in BS 5839: Part 1: 1988,
suitable arrangements to be made in all buildings except that the provisions in clause 16.5 regarding
to give early warning in the event of fire. duration of the standby supply need not be followed.
However with unsupervised systems, the standby
Paragraphs 1.2 to 1.22 deal with dwellings and supply should be capable of automatically
paragraphs 1.23 to 1.32 with other buildings. maintaining the system in normal operation (though
with audible and visible indication of failure of the
Dwellings mains) for 72 hours, at the end of which sufficient
capacity remains to supply the maximum alarm
load for at least 15 minutes.
General
1.7 A large house of no more than 3 storeys
1.2 In most houses the installation of smoke alarms (including basement storeys) may be fitted with
or automatic fire detection and alarm systems, an automatic fire detection and alarm system of
can significantly increase the level of safety by Grade B type LD3 as described in BS 5839:
automatically giving an early warning of fire. Part 6 instead of an L2 system.
1.3 If houses are not protected by an automatic
fire detection and alarm system in accordance Loft conversions
with the relevant recommendations of BS 5839:
Part 1 Fire detection and alarm systems for buildings, 1.8 Where a loft in a one or two storey house is
Code of practice for system design, installation and converted into habitable accommodation, an
servicing to at least an L3 standard, or BS 5839: automatic smoke detection and alarm system
Part 6 Code of practice for the design and installation based on linked smoke alarms should be installed
of fire detection and alarm systems in dwellings to (see paragraph 2.26).
at least a Grade E type LD3 standard, they should
be provided with a suitable number of smoke Flats and maisonettes
alarms installed in accordance with the guidance 1.9 The same principles apply within flats and
in paragraphs 1.4 to 1.22 below. maisonettes as for houses, while noting that:
1.4 The smoke alarms should be mains-operated a. the provisions are not intended to be applied
and conform to BS 5446 Components of to the common parts of blocks of flats and
automatic fire alarm systems for residential do not include interconnection between
premises, Part 1 Specification for self-contained installations in separate flats;
smoke alarms and point-type smoke detectors.
They may have a secondary power supply such b. a flat with accommodation on more than
as a battery (either rechargeable or replaceable) or one level (ie a maisonette) should be treated
capacitor. More information on power supplies is in the same way as a house with more than
given in clause 13 of BS 5839: Part 6: 1995. one storey.
Note: BS 5446: Part 1 covers smoke alarms Note: Some student residential accommodation
based on ionization chamber smoke detectors is constructed in the same way as a block of flats.
and optical (photo-electric) smoke detectors. The Where groups of students share one flat with its
different types of detector respond differently to own entrance door, it is appropriate to provide an
smouldering and fast flaming fires. Either type of automatic detection system within each flat. In
detector is generally suitable. However, the choice student flats constructed on the compartmentation
of detector type should, if possible, take into principles for flats in Section 9 (B3), the automatic
account the type of fire that might be expected detection system will satisfy the requirements of
and the need to avoid false alarms. Optical building regulations if it gives a warning in the flat
detectors tend to be less affected by low levels of of fire origin. Where a general evacuation is
‘invisible’ smoke that often cause false alarms. required, the alarm system should follow the
guidance in paragraph 1.30.
BS 5839: Part 6 suggests that, in general, optical
smoke alarms should be installed in circulation Sheltered housing
spaces such as hallways and landings, and
ionization chamber based smoke alarms may be 1.10 The detection equipment in a sheltered
the more appropriate type in rooms, such as the housing scheme with a warden or supervisor,
living room or dining room where a fast burning should have a connection to a central monitoring
fire may present a greater danger to occupants point (or central alarm relay station) so that the
than a smouldering fire. person in charge is aware that a fire has been
detected in one of the dwellings, and can identify

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FIRE ALARMS B1
the dwelling concerned. These provisions are not fixed to surfaces which are normally much warmer
intended to be applied to the common parts of a or colder than the rest of the space, because the
sheltered housing development, such as communal temperature difference might create air currents
lounges, or to sheltered accommodation in the which move smoke away from the unit.
Institutional or Other residential purpose groups.
A requirement for maintenance can not be made
as a condition of passing plans by the Building
Installations based on smoke alarms Control Body. However the attention of developers
1.11 Smoke alarms should normally be positioned and builders is drawn to the importance of
in the circulation spaces between sleeping spaces providing the occupants with information on the
and places where fires are most likely to start (eg use of the equipment, and on its maintenance (or
kitchens and living rooms) to pick up smoke in the guidance on suitable maintenance contractors).
early stages, while also being close enough to Note: BS 5839: Part 1 and Part 6 recommend
bedroom doors for the alarm to be effective when that occupiers should receive the manufacturers’
occupants are asleep. instructions concerning the operation and
1.12 In a house (including bungalows) there should maintenance of the alarm system.
be at least one smoke alarm on every storey.
1.13 Where more than one smoke alarm is installed
Power supplies
they should be linked so that the detection of 1.17 The power supply for a smoke alarm system
smoke by one unit operates the alarm signal in all should be derived from the dwelling’s mains
of them. The manufacturers’ instructions about electricity supply. The mains supply to the smoke
the maximum number of units that can be linked alarm(s) should comprise a single independent
should be observed. circuit at the dwelling’s main distribution board
(consumer unit). If the smoke alarm installation
1.14 Smoke alarms should be sited so that:
does not include a stand-by power supply, no
a. there is a smoke alarm in the circulation other electrical equipment should be connected
space within 7.5m of the door to every to this circuit (apart from a dedicated monitoring
habitable room; device installed to indicate failure of the mains
supply to the smoke alarms – see below).
b. where the kitchen area is not separated from
the stairway or circulation space by a door, 1.18 A smoke alarm, or smoke alarm system, that
there should be a compatible interlinked includes a standby power supply or supplies, can
heat detector in the kitchen, in addition to operate during mains failure. It can therefore be
whatever smoke alarms are needed in the connected to a regularly-used local lighting circuit.
circulation space(s); This has the advantage that the circuit is unlikely
to be disconnected for any prolonged period.
c. they are ceiling mounted and at least 300mm
from walls and light fittings (unless in the case 1.19 Devices for monitoring the mains supply to
of light fittings there is test evidence to prove the smoke alarm system may comprise audible
that the proximity of the light fitting will not or visible signals on each unit or on a dedicated
adversely affect the efficiency of the detector). mains monitor connected to the smoke alarm
Units designed for wall mounting may also circuit. The circuit design of any mains failure
be used provided that the units are above monitor should avoid any significant reduction in
the level of doorways opening into the space, the reliability of the supply, and should be sited
and they are fixed in accordance with so that the warning of failure is readily apparent
manufacturers’ instructions; and to the occupants. If a continuous audible warning
is given, it should be possible to silence it.
d. the sensor in ceiling mounted devices is
between 25mm and 600mm below the ceiling 1.20 The smoke alarm circuit should preferably
(25-150mm in the case of heat detectors). not be protected by any residual current device
(rcd). However if electrical safety requires the use
Note: This guidance applies to ceilings that
of a rcd, either:
are predominantly flat and horizontal.
a. the smoke alarm circuit should be protected
1.15 It should be possible to reach the smoke
by a single rcd which serves no other circuit; or
alarms to carry out routine maintenance, such as
testing and cleaning, easily and safely. For this b. the rcd protection of a smoke alarm circuit
reason smoke alarms should not be fixed over a should operate independently of any rcd
stair shaft or any other opening between floors. protection for circuits supplying socket-outlets
or portable equipment.
1.16 Smoke alarms should not be fixed next to or
directly above heaters or air conditioning outlets. 1.21 Any cable suitable for domestic wiring may
They should not be fixed in bathrooms, showers, be used for the power supply and interconnection
cooking areas or garages, or any other place where to smoke alarm systems. It does not need any
steam, condensation or fumes could give false alarms. particular fire survival properties. Any conductors
used for interconnecting alarms (signalling) should
Smoke alarms should not be fitted in places that
be readily distinguishable from those supplying
get very hot (such as a boiler room), or very cold
mains power, eg by colour coding.
(such as an unheated porch). They should not be

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B1 FIRE ALARMS
Note: Smoke alarms may be interconnected using Fire alarm systems
radio-links, provided that this does not reduce the
lifetime or duration of any standby power supply. 1.25 All buildings should have arrangements for
detecting fire. In most buildings fires are detected
1.22 Other effective, though possibly more by people, either through observation or smell,
expensive, options exist. For example, the mains and therefore often nothing more will be needed.
supply may be reduced to extra low voltage in a
control unit incorporating a standby trickle- 1.26 In small buildings/premises the means of
charged battery, before being distributed at that raising the alarm may be simple. For instance,
voltage to the alarms. where all occupants are near to each other a
shouted warning “FIRE” by the person discovering
the fire may be all that is needed. In assessing the
Buildings other than dwellings situation, it must be determined that the warning
can be heard and understood throughout the
General premises, including for example the toilet areas. In
other circumstances, manually operated sounders
1.23 To select the appropriate type of fire alarm/ (such as rotary gongs or handbells) may be used.
detection system that should be installed into a Alternatively a simple manual call point combined
particular building, the type of occupancy and with a bell, battery and charger may be suitable.
means of escape strategy (eg simultaneous,
phased or progressive horizontal evacuation) In all other cases, the building should be provided
must be determined. with a suitable electrically operated fire warning
system with manual call points sited adjacent to
For example, if occupants normally sleep on the exit doors and sufficient sounders to be clearly
premises eg residential accommodation, the audible throughout the building.
threat posed by a fire is much greater than that
in premises where the occupants are normally 1.27 An electrically operated fire alarm system
alert. Where the means of escape is based on should comply with BS 5839: Part 1 Fire detection
simultaneous evacuation, then operation of a and alarm systems for buildings, Code of practice
manual call point or fire detector should give an for system design, installation and servicing.
almost instantaneous warning from all the fire Call points for electrical alarm systems should
alarm sounders. However, where the means of comply with BS 5839: Part 2 Specification for
escape is based on phased evacuation, then a manual call points, and these should be installed
staged alarm system is appropriate. Such a in accordance with BS 5839: Part 1.
system enables two or more stages of alarm to
be given within a particular area, eg “alert” or Note: BS 5839: Part 1 specifies four types of
“evacuate” signals. system, ie type L for the protection of life; type M
manual alarm systems; type P for property protection;
Note: the term fire detection system is used here and type X for multi-occupancy buildings. Type L
to describe any type of automatic sensor network systems are subdivided into L1 – systems installed
and associated control and indicating equipment. throughout the protected building; L2 – systems
Sensors may be sensitive to smoke, heat or installed only in defined parts of the protected
radiation. Normally the control and indicating building (a type L2 system should normally include
equipment operates a fire alarm system, and it the coverage required of a type L3 system) and
may perform other signalling or control functions L3 – systems installed only for the protection of
as well. Automatic sprinkler systems can also be escape routes. Type P systems are subdivided into
used to operate a fire alarm system. P1 – systems installed throughout the protected
1.24 The factors which have to be considered building and P2 – systems installed only in defined
when assessing what standard of fire alarm or parts of the protected building.
automatic fire detection system is to be provided 1.28 If it is considered that people might not
will vary widely from one set of premises to respond quickly to a fire warning, or where people
another. Therefore the appropriate standard will are unfamiliar with the fire warning arrangements,
need to be considered on a case by case basis. consideration may be given to installing a voice
Note: Where buildings will be controlled under alarm system. Such a system could form part of a
other legislation when occupied, for example public address system and give both an audible
premises which are designated under the Fire signal and verbal instructions in the event of fire.
Precautions Act 1971 and/or are classified as a The fire warning signal should be distinct from
workplace under the Fire Precautions (Workplace) other signals which may be in general use and be
Regulations 1997, compatibility is essential between accompanied by clear verbal instructions.
what is provided under the Building Regulations
at construction stage, and what is needed upon If a voice alarm system is to be installed, it should
the completion and occupation of the premises. comply with BS 5839: Part 8 Code of practice for
This should be achieved by means of early the design, installation and servicing of voice
consultation with all relevant interested alarm systems.
parties, not least the Building Control Body 1.29 In certain premises, eg large shops and
and the Fire Authority. places of assembly, an initial general alarm may
be undesirable because of the number of

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FIRE ALARMS B1
members of the public present. The need for Design and installation of systems
fully trained staff to effect pre-planned procedures
for safe evacuation will therefore be essential. 1.32 It is essential that fire detection and fire
Actuation of the fire alarm system will cause staff warning systems are properly designed, installed
to be alerted, eg by discreet sounders, personal and maintained. Where a fire alarm system is
paging systems etc. Provision will normally be installed, an installation and commissioning
made for full evacuation of the premises by certificate should be [Link] party certification
sounders or a message broadcast over the public schemes for fire protection products and related
address system. In all other respects, any staff services are an effective means of providing the
alarm system should comply with BS 5839: Part 1. fullest possible assurances, offering a level of
quality, reliability and safety (see paragraph 0.20).
Automatic fire detection and fire
alarm systems
1.30 Automatic fire detection and alarms in
accordance with BS 5839: Part 1 should be
provided in Institutional and Other residential
occupancies.
1.31 Automatic fire detection systems are not
normally needed in Office, Shop and commercial,
Assembly and recreation, Industrial, and Storage
and other non-residential occupancies. However,
there are often circumstances where a fire
detection system in accordance with BS 5839:
Part 1 may be needed. For example:
a. to compensate for some departure from the
guidance elsewhere in this document;
b. as part of the operating system for some fire
protection systems, such as pressure differential
systems or automatic door releases;
c. where a fire could break out in an unoccupied
part of the premises (eg a storage area or
basement that is not visited on a regular basis,
or a part of the building that has been temporarily
vacated) and prejudice the means of escape
from any occupied part(s) of the premises.

Notes:
1. General guidance on the standard of automatic
fire detection that may need to be provided
within a building can be found in the Home
Office guides that support the Fire Precautions
Act 1971 and the Fire Precautions (Workplace)
Regulations 1997 and, in the case of the
Institutional purpose group, in “Firecode”.
2. Guidance on the provision of automatic fire
detection within a building which is designed
for phased evacuation can be found in
paragraph 5.20.
3. Where an atrium building is designed in
accordance BS 5588: Fire precautions in the
design, construction and use of buildings, Part 7
Code of practice for the incorporation of atria
in buildings, then the relevant recommendations
in that code for the installation of fire alarm/fire
detection systems for the design option(s)
selected should be followed.

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B1 DWELLINGHOUSES
Section 2
DWELLINGHOUSES General provisions
Inner rooms
Introduction
2.4 A room whose only escape route is through
2.1 The means of escape from a typical one or another room is termed an inner room and is at
two storey house are relatively simple to provide. risk if a fire starts in that other room (access room).
Few provisions are specified in this document This situation may arise with open plan layouts
beyond ensuring that means are provided for and sleeping galleries.
giving early warning in the event of fire (see Such an arrangement is only acceptable where
Section 1) and that suitable means are provided the inner room is:
for emergency egress from each storey.
a. a kitchen;
With increasing height more complex provisions
are needed because emergency egress through b. a laundry or utility room;
upper windows becomes increasingly hazardous. c. a dressing room;
It is then necessary to protect the internal stairway.
If there are floors more than 7.5m above ground d. a bathroom, wc, or shower room;
level, the risk that the stairway will become e. any other room on a floor not more than 4.5m
impassable before occupants of the upper parts above ground level which complies with
of the house have escaped is appreciable, and an paragraph 2.7, 2.8b or 2.10 as appropriate;or
alternative route from those parts is called for.
f. a sleeping gallery which complies with
2.2 In providing fire protection of any kind in paragraph 2.9.
houses it should be recognised that measures
which significantly interfere with the day-to-day
convenience of the occupants may be less
Balconies and flat roofs
reliable in the long term. 2.5 A flat roof forming part of a means of escape
should comply with the following provisions:
2.3 This guidance is also applicable to the design
and construction of houses which are considered a. the roof should be part of the same building
to be ‘houses in multiple occupation’ (HMOs) from which escape is being made;
providing there are no more than 6 residents. For
b. the route across the roof should lead to a
HMOs with a greater number of residents, then
storey exit or external escape route; and
additional precautions may be necessary. A house
in multiple occupation is defined in section 345 c. the part of the roof forming the escape route
of the Housing Act 1985 as “a house which is and its supporting structure, together with
occupied by persons who do not form a single any opening within 3m of the escape route,
household”. Guidance on the interpretation of this should provide 30 minutes fire resistance
definition is given in DOE Circular 12/93 Houses (see Appendix A Table A1).
in multiple occupation. Guidance to local housing
2.6 Where a balcony or flat roof is provided for
authorities on managing the stock in their area
escape purposes guarding may be needed, in
and Welsh Office Circular 55/93 Houses in multiple
which case it should meet the provisions in
occupation. Guidance on management strategies.
Approved Document K Protection from falling,
Technical guidance for HMOs is given in DOE collision and impact.
Circular 12/92 Houses in multiple occupation.
Guidance to local housing authorities on standards
of fitness under section 352 of the Housing Act 1985 Provisions for escape from
and Welsh Office Circular 25/92 Local Government floors not more than 4.5m above
and Housing Act 1989. Houses in multiple ground level
occupation: standards of fitness.
Depending on the nature of the occupants and Note: Ground level is explained in Appendix C,
their management, it may be acceptable to treat Diagram C5.
an unsupervised group home with up to 6 2.7 Except for kitchens, all habitable rooms in the
residents as an ordinary dwelling. However upper storey(s) of a house served by only one stair
because such places have to be registered, the should be provided with a window (or external
registration authority should be consulted to door) which complies with paragraph 2.11.
establish whether there are any additional fire
safety measures that the authority will require. Note: A single window can be accepted to serve
two rooms provided both rooms have their own
access to the stairs. A communicating door
between the rooms must be provided so that it is
possible to gain access to the window without
passing through the stair enclosure.

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DWELLINGHOUSES B1
2.8 Except for kitchens, all habitable rooms in b. The window or door should enable the person
the ground storey should either: escaping to reach a place free from danger
from fire. This is a matter for judgement in
a. open directly onto a hall leading to the
each case, but in general a courtyard or back
entrance or other suitable exit; or
garden from which there is no exit other than
b. be provided with a window (or door) which through other buildings would have to be at
complies with paragraph 2.11. least as deep as the dwelling is high to be
acceptable, see Diagram 2.
2.9 Where a sleeping gallery is provided:
a. the gallery should be not more than 4.5m
above ground level;
Diagram 2 Ground or basement storey
exit into 3anAenclosed space
Diagram
b. the distance between the foot of the access
stair to the gallery and the door to the room See para 2.11(b)
containing the gallery should not exceed 3m;
c. an alternative exit, or an emergency egress mid point of roof slope
window which complies with paragraph 2.11,
is needed if the distance from the head of the enclosed space with
access stair to any point on the gallery exit only possible
exceeds 7.5m; and B through other buildings

d. any cooking facilities within a room containing

a gallery should either: A

i. be enclosed with fire-resisting construction; or

ii. be remote from the stair to the gallery and
positioned such that they do not prejudice
the escape from the gallery. Depth of back garden A should exceed the height B of the
house above ground level for it to be acceptable for an
escape route from the ground or basement storey to open
Basements into the garden.
2.10 Because of the risk that a single stairway
may be blocked by smoke from a fire in the
basement or ground storey, if the basement storey c. Where provided in a loft conversion of a
contains any habitable room, either provide: 2 storey house, a dormer window or roof
a. an external door or window suitable for egress window should be positioned in accordance
from the basement (see paragraph 2.11); or with Diagram 6.
b. a protected stairway leading from the
basement to a final exit. Additional provisions for houses
with a floor more than 4.5m above
Emergency egress windows and
external doors
ground level
2.11 Any window provided for emergency egress 2.12 The provisions described in 2.13-2.16 and
purposes and any external door provided for 2.17 do not apply if the house has more than one
escape should comply with the following conditions. internal stairway which afford effective alternative
means of escape and are adequately separated
a. The window should have an unobstructed from each other.
openable area that is at least 0.33m2 and at
least 450mm high and 450mm wide (the route
through the window may be at an angle rather Houses with one floor more than 4.5m
than straight through).The bottom of the above ground level
openable area should be not more than 2.13 The house may either have a protected
1100mm above the floor. stairway as described in (a) below, or the top floor
Note: Approved Document K Protection from can be separated and given its own alternative
falling, collision and impact specifies a minimum escape route as described in (b). A variation of (b)
guarding height of 800mm, except in the case can be used where the roofspace of an existing
of a window in a roof where the bottom of the two storey dwelling house is being converted into
opening may be 600mm above the floor. habitable accommodation to form a three storey
dwelling house, see paragraphs 2.17 to 2.26.

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B1 DWELLINGHOUSES
a. The upper storeys (those above ground storey) Houses with more than one floor over
should be served by a protected stairway 4.5m above ground level
which should either:
2.14 Where a house has two or more storeys
i. extend to a final exit, see Diagram 3(a), or with floors more than 4.5m above ground level
ii. give access to at least two escape routes (typically a house of four or more storeys), then in
at ground level, each delivering to final addition to meeting the provisions in paragraph
exits and separated from each other by 2.13, an alternative escape route should be
fire-resisting construction and self-closing provided from each storey or level situated 7.5m
fire doors, see Diagram 3(b). or more above ground level.
b. The top storey should be separated from the Where the access to the alternative escape route
lower storeys by fire-resisting construction is via:
and be provided with an alternative escape a. the protected stairway to an upper storey; or
route leading to its own final exit.
b. a landing within the protected stairway
Note: Fire doors in dwellings may be fitted with enclosure to an alternative escape route on
rising butt hinges rather than spring or other the same storey; then
forms of self-closing device (see Appendix E c. the protected stairway at or about 7.5m above
definition of “automatic self-closing device”). ground level should be separated from the
lower storeys or levels by fire-resisting
Diagram 3 Alternative arrangements construction, see Diagram 4.
for final exits
Diagram 3 A
Diagram 4 Fire separation in houses
See paras 2.13(a) and 2.18
with more than one floor over 4.5m
(a) above ground
Diagram 3 A level
fd Example of alternative exit in para 2.14(b)
fd

protected fd
fd stairway

final exit

PLAN
final exit 1 stair separated from landing to allow
(b) access to alternative exit

fd

fd
storey
over
fd
7.5m
4.5m
final exit 2

Note: In loft conversions, existing doors need only be made

self-closing.
Key
Key
fd self-closing FD20 fire door
fd self-closing FD20 fire door
30 minute fire-resisting construction
30 minute fire-resisting construction
AE alternative escape route (see Appendix E)

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DWELLINGHOUSES B1
Air circulation systems for heating, energy Loft conversions
conservation or condensation control in
houses with a floor more than 4.5m above 2.17 In the case of an existing two storey house
ground level to which a storey is to be added by converting
the existing roof space into habitable rooms, the
2.15 With these types of systems, the following following provisions 2.18-2.25 can be applied as
precautions are needed to avoid the possibility of an alternative to those in paragraph 2.13.
the system allowing smoke or fire to spread into
a protected stairway. However, these alternative provisions are not
suitable if:
a. Transfer grilles should not be fitted in any wall,
door, floor or ceiling enclosing a protected a. the new second storey exceeds 50m2 in floor
stairway. area; or
b. All ductwork passing through the enclosure b. the new second storey is to contain more than
to a protected stairway should be so fitted two habitable rooms.
that all joints between the ductwork and the
enclosure are fire-stopped. Enclosure of existing stair
c. Where ductwork is used to convey air into a 2.18 The stair in the ground and first storeys
protected stairway through the enclosure of should be enclosed with walls and/or partitions
the protected stairway, the return air from the which are fire-resisting, and the enclosure
protected stairway should be ducted back to should either:
the plant.
a. extend to a final exit, see Diagram 3(a); or
d. Air and return air grilles or registers should be
positioned at a height not exceeding 450mm b. give access to at least two escape routes at
above floor level. ground level, each delivering to final exits and
separated from each other by fire-resisting
e. A room thermostat for a ducted warm air construction and self-closing fire doors, see
heating system should be mounted in the Diagram 3(b).
living room at a height between 1370mm and
1830mm, and its maximum setting should not Doorways
exceed 27°C.
2.19 Every doorway within the enclosure to the
f. Any system of mechanical ventilation which existing stair should be fitted with a door which,
recirculates air should comply with the in the case of doors to habitable rooms, should
relevant recommendations in BS 5588 Fire be fitted with a self-closing device.
precautions in the design, construction and
use of buildings, Part 9 Code of practice for Note: Rising butt hinges are adequate as self-
ventilation and air conditioning ductwork. closing devices (see Note to paragraph 2.13).
Any new door to a habitable room should be a fire
Passenger lifts door. Existing doors need only be fitted with self-
2.16 Where a passenger lift is provided in the closing devices. Existing glazed doors may need
house and it serves any floor more than 4.5m to have the glazing changed, see paragraph 2.20.
above ground level, it should either be located
in the enclosure to the protected stairway (see Glazing
paragraph 2.13) or be contained in a fire-resisting 2.20 Any glazing (whether new or exisiting) in the
lift shaft. enclosure to the existing stair, including all doors
(whether or not they need to be fire doors), but
excluding glazing to a bathroom or wc, should
be fire-resisting and retained by a suitable glazing
system and beads compatible with the type of
glass. (See also Appendix A, Table A4.)

New stair
2.21 The new storey should be served by a stair
(which may be an alternating tread stair or fixed
ladder) meeting the provisions in Approved
Document K, Protection from falling, collision
and impact. The new stair may be located either
in a continuation of the existing stairway, or in an
enclosure that is separated from the existing stairway,
and from ground and first floor accommodation,
but which opens into the existing stairway at first
floor level, see Diagram 5.

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B1 DWELLINGHOUSES

Diagram 5 Alternatives for the fire Fire separation of new storey

separation of the stair and new storey 2.22 The new storey should be separated from
the rest of the house by fire-resisting construction,
in house3conversion
Diagram A see paragraph 8.7. To maintain this separation,
See paras 2.21 and 2.22 measures should be taken to prevent smoke and
fire in the stairway from entering the new storey.
This may be achieved by providing a self-closing
fire door set in fire-resisting construction either at
separation
the top or the bottom of the new stair, depending
on the layout of the new stairway, see Diagram 5.

Emergency egress windows

2.23 Windows provided for emergency egress
purposes from basement, ground or first storeys,
provide a means of self-rescue. At higher level
escape may depend on a ladder being set up.
While this is a departure from the general principle
a. stair to new storey is within existing stairway. that escape should be without outside assistance
Separation of accommodation on new storey it is considered that, in the case of a three storey
from stair is at top level. domestic residential loft conversion this is reasonable
as an emergency measure. A fixed ladder on the
slope of the roof is not recommended.
2.24 The room (or rooms) in the new storey should
each have an openable window or rooflight which
separation meets the relevant provisions in Diagram 6. A door
to a roof terrace is also acceptable.
In a 2 room loft conversion, a single window can
be accepted provided both rooms have their own
access to the stairs. A communicating door
between the rooms must be provided so that it
is possible to gain access to the window without
passing through the stair enclosure.
2.25 The window should be located to allow access
b. stair to new storey is in space converted and for rescue by ladder from the ground (there should
separated from first floor accommodation. therefore be suitable pedestrian access to the
New storey separated from stair at top level. point at which a ladder would be set, for fire
service personnel to carry a ladder from their
vehicle, although it should not be assumed that
only the fire service will make a rescue).
separation Escape across the roof of a ground storey
extension is acceptable providing the roof is fire-
resisting (see paragraph 2.5 and Appendix A,
Table A1). The effect of an extension on the ability
to escape from windows in other parts of the
house (especially from a loft conversion) should
be considered.

Automatic smoke detection and alarms

2.26 Smoke alarms should be fitted as described
c. stair to new storey is in space converted and
in Section 1.
separated from first floor accommodation.
New storey open to new stair. New stair separated
from original stair at first floor level.

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DWELLINGHOUSES B1
Diagram 6 Position of dormer window or rooflight suitable for emergency egress
purposes from a loft conversion of a 2-storey dwellinghouse
See paras 2.11(c) and 2.24

1700mm maximum
measured on the roof
surface from the
eaves to the vertical bottom of openable area 1700mm bottom of openable area
plane of the dormer maximum
1100mm maximum 1100mm maximum
800mm minimum 600mm minimum

floor level floor level

eaves eaves

a. DORMER WINDOW b. ROOFLIGHT OR ROOF WINDOW

The window may be in the end wall of
the house, instead of the roof as shown

Note 1: The window or rooflight should have a clear opening Note 2: It is not considered necessary for the window
which complies with paragraph 2.11a. in Diagram (b) to be provided with safety glazing.

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B1 FLATS AND MAISONETTES

Section 3
FLATS AND MAISONETTES Houses in multiple occupation
3.5 This guidance is also applicable to flats and
Introduction maisonettes when they are considered to be
houses in multiple occupation. Whether or not a
3.1 The means of escape from a flat or maisonette building is a house in multiple occupation depends
with a floor not more than 4.5m above ground level on the nature of the occupancy, rather than its
are relatively simple to provide. Few provisions physical form. See paragraph 2.3 for guidance
are specified in this document beyond ensuring available for houses in multiple occupation.
that means are provided for giving early warning
in the event of fire (see Section 1) and that suitable Sheltered housing
means are provided for emergency egress from 3.6 Whilst many of the provisions in this
these storeys. Approved Document for means of escape from
With increasing height more complex provisions flats are applicable to sheltered housing, the
are needed because emergency egress through nature of the occupancy may necessitate some
upper windows becomes increasingly hazardous, additional fire protection measures. The extent will
and in maisonettes internal stairs with a higher depend on the form of the development. For
level of protection are needed. example a group of specially adapted bungalows
or 2 storey flats, with few communal facilities,
3.2 The guidance in this section deals with some need not be treated differently from other 1 or 2
common arrangements of flat and maisonette storey houses or flats. Where additional provisions
design. Other, less common, arrangements (for are needed guidance on means of escape can be
example flats entered above or below accommodation found in clause 17 of BS 5588: Part 1: 1990.
level, or flats containing galleries) are acceptable.
Guidance on these is given in clauses 9 and 10 of
BS 5588 Fire precautions in the design, construction General provisions
and use of buildings, Part 1: 1990 Code of practice
for residential buildings. Inner rooms
3.3 The provisions for means of escape for flats 3.7 A room whose only escape route is through
and maisonettes are based on the assumption that: another room is at risk if a fire starts in that other
room. The guidance in Section 2, paragraph 2.4,
a. the fire is generally in a dwelling;
on inner rooms in dwelling houses, applies equally
b. there is no reliance on external rescue (eg by to flats and maisonettes.
a portable ladder);
c. measures in Section 9 (B3) provide a high Basements
degree of compartmentation and therefore a 3.8 Because of the risk that a single stairway may
low probability of fire spread beyond the dwelling be blocked by smoke from a fire in the basement
of origin, so that simultaneous evacuation of or ground storey, the guidance in Section 2
the building is unlikely to be necessary; and paragraph 2.10, about basements in dwelling
d. although fires may occur in the common parts houses, applies equally to basement flats and
of the building, the materials and construction maisonettes.
used there should prevent the fabric from being
involved beyond the immediate vicinity (although Balconies and flat roofs
in some cases communal facilities exist which 3.9 The guidance in Section 2 paragraphs 2.5
require additional measures to be taken). and 2.6 on balconies and flat roofs of dwelling
3.4 There are two distinct components to planning houses, applies equally to flats and maisonettes.
means of escape from buildings containing flats In addition any balcony outside an alternative exit
and maisonettes; escape from within each dwelling, to a dwelling more than 4.5m above ground level
and escape from each dwelling to the final exit should be a common balcony and meet the
from the building. conditions in paragraph 3.15.
Paragraphs 3.7 to 3.16 deal with the means of
escape within each unit, ie within the private
domestic area. Paragraphs 3.17 to 3.48 deal
with the means of escape in the common areas
of the building.

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FLATS AND MAISONETTES B1

Provisions for escape from flats Diagram 7 Flat where all habitable
and maisonettes where the floor rooms have direct access to an
is not more than 4.5m above entrance hall
ground level See para 3.11(a)

3.10 All rooms in the upper storey(s) should

comply with Section 2 paragraph 2.7 if the design
of the dwelling and the common means of escape
does not follow the guidance in paragraphs 3.11 fd
to 3.39. All rooms in the ground storey should
comply with paragraph 2.8. fd

9m max
Additional provisions for flats and
maisonettes with a floor more fd

than 4.5m above ground level fd fd*

fd fd
Internal planning of flats protected
entrance hall
3.11 Three acceptable approaches (all of which
should observe the restrictions concerning inner
rooms given in paragraph 3.7) when planning a flat entrance
flat which has a floor at more than 4.5m above
ground level are: Note: Bathrooms need not have fire doors providing the
bathroom is separated by fire-resisting construction
a. to provide a protected entrance hall which from the adjacent rooms.
serves all habitable rooms, planned so that
the travel distance from the entrance door to Key
the door to any habitable room is 9m or less fd self-closing FD20 fire door
(see Diagram 7); or fd* a cupboard door need not be self-closing
30 minute fire-resisting construction around entrance hall
b. to plan the flat so that the travel distance from
the entrance door to any point in any of the
habitable rooms does not exceed 9m and the
cooking facilities are remote from the entrance Diagram 8 Flat with restricted
door and do not prejudice the escape route travel distance from furthest point
from any point in the flat, (see Diagram 8); or
to entrance
c. to provide an alternative exit from the flat, See para 3.11(b)
complying with paragraph 3.12.

bath
kitchen
area
9m
ma

ax
m
x

9m

flat entrance

kitchen
x
ma
9m

flat entrance

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B1 FLATS AND MAISONETTES

Diagram 9 Flat with an alternative exit, Diagram 10 Maisonette with

but where all habitable rooms have no alternative exits from each habitable
direct access to an entrance hall room, except at entrance level
See para 3.12 See para 3.14(a)

bedroom bedroom

bath
bedroom
bathroom
fd

kitchen
LEVEL(S) ABOVE OR
BELOW ENTRANCE LEVEL

living room

flat entrance

Note: The bedrooms are not classified as inner rooms

because escape is possible in two directions.

Key
fd self-closing FD20 fire door
30 minute fire-resisting construction between living and
bedroom accommodation
AE alternative exit
ENTRANCE LEVEL

3.12 Where any flat has an alternative exit and Note: This only applies where at least one storey is more
the habitable rooms do not have direct access than 4.5m above ground level.
to the entrance hall, (see Diagram 9): Key
AE alternative exit
a. the bedrooms should be separated from
the living accommodation by fire-resisting
construction and self-closing fire-door(s); and
b. the alternative exit should be located in the
part of the flat containing the bedroom(s).

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FLATS AND MAISONETTES B1

Internal planning of maisonettes Alternative exits
3.13 A maisonette with an independent external 3.15 To be effective, an alternative exit from a flat
entrance at ground level is similar to a dwellinghouse or maisonette should satisfy the following conditions:
and means of escape should be planned on the
a. be remote from the main entrance door to the
basis of paragraphs 2.13 or 2.14 depending on
dwelling; and
the height of the top storey above ground level.
b. lead to a final exit or common stair by way of:
3.14 Two acceptable approaches to planning a
maisonette, which does not have its own external i. a door onto an access corridor, access
entrance at ground level but has a floor at more lobby or common balcony, or
than 4.5m above ground level, are:
ii. an internal private stair leading to an
a. to provide an alternative exit from each access corridor, access lobby or common
habitable room which is not on the entrance balcony at another level, or
floor of the maisonette, see Diagram 10; or
iii. a door onto a common stair, or
b. to provide one alternative exit from each floor
iv. a door onto an external stair, or
(other than the entrance floor), with a protected
landing entered directly from all the habitable v. a door onto an escape route over a flat roof.
rooms on that floor, see Diagram 11.
Note: Any such access to a final exit or common
stair should meet the appropriate provisions
Diagram 11 Maisonette with protected dealing with means of escape in the common
entrance hall and landing parts of the building (see paragraph 3.17).
See para 3.14(b) Air circulation systems for heating, energy
conservation or condensation control in
flats and maisonettes with a floor more
fd than 4.5m above ground level
protected
3.16 With these types of systems, the following
landing fd precautions are needed to avoid the possibility of
the system allowing smoke or fire to spread into a
fd protected entrance hall or landing.
a. Transfer grilles should not be fitted in any wall,
fd door, floor or ceiling enclosing a protected
entrance hall of a dwelling or protected stairway
and landing of a maisonette.
fd
b. All ductwork passing through the enclosure to
NOT ENTRANCE LEVEL a protected entrance hall or protected stairway
and landing should be so fitted that all joints
between the ductwork and the enclosure are
fire-stopped.
c. Where ductwork is used to convey air into
a protected entrance hall of the dwelling
or protected stairway and landing within
a maisonette through the enclosure of the
fd protected hall or stairway, the return air from
the protected hall or stairway should be
ducted back to the plant.
fd d. Air and return air grilles or registers should be
positioned at a height not exceeding 450mm
protected above floor level.
entrance hall e. A room thermostat for a ducted warm air
heating system should be mounted at a height
ENTRANCE LEVEL between 1370mm and 1830mm in an area
wc
from which air is drawn directly to the heating
unit, and its maximum setting should not
Note: This only applies where at least one storey is more exceed 27°C.
than 4.5m above ground level.
f. Any system of mechanical ventilation which
Key
recirculates air should comply with paragraph 6.46.
fd self-closing FD20 fire door
30 minute fire-resisting stair enclosure
AE alternative exit

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Means of escape in the common However, a single escape route from the dwelling
entrance door is acceptable if either:
parts of flats and maisonettes
a. the dwelling is situated in a storey served by
3.17 The following paragraphs deal with means of a single common stair and:
escape from the entrance doors of dwellings i. every dwelling is separated from the
to a final exit. They should be read in conjunction common stair by a protected lobby or
with the general provisions in Section 6. common corridor (see Diagram 12), and
Note: Paragraphs 3.18 to 3.48 are not applicable ii. the travel distance limitations in Table 2,
where the top floor is not more than 4.5m above on escape in one direction only, are
ground level. However, attention is drawn to the observed; or
provisions in paragraph 3.6 regarding sheltered
housing, Section 6 regarding general provisions, b. alternatively the dwelling is situated in a dead
Section 9 (B3) regarding the provision of end part of a common corridor served by two
compartment walls and protected shafts, and (or more) common stairs, and the distance to
Section 17 (B5) regarding the provision of access the nearest common stair complies with the
for the fire service. limitations in Table 2 on escape in one
direction only (see Diagram 13).
Number of escape routes
3.18 Every dwelling should have access to
alternative escape routes so that a person
confronted by the effects of an outbreak of fire
in another dwelling can turn away from it and
make a safe escape.

Diagram 12 Flats or maisonettes served by one common stair

See paras 3.18(a) and 3.23

AOV

D D
fd fd AOV
D vent at
fd fd D fd top of
7.5m max D stair
D
D fd* D
7.5m

fd fd
fd fd
max

fd OV
fd OV 7.5m
max
fd fd AOV fd
D fd* D
7.5m max D fd
D D
fd fd
fd D
fd
D D

AOV

a. CORRIDOR ACCESS DWELLINGS b. STAIR BY EXTERNAL WALL c. INTERNAL STAIR

Note: See Diagram 14 for small single stair buildings.

Key
OV openable vent at high level for fire service use (1.0m2 minimum free area)
AOV automatic opening vent at high level (1.5m2 minimum free area)
D dwelling
fd self-closing FD30S fire door
fd* self-closing FD20S fire door

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Diagram 13 Flats or maisonettes served by more than one common stair
See paras 3.18(b) and 3.23
OV OV
a. CORRIDOR ACCESS DWELLINGS
ON ONE SIDE ONLY D D D D D D D
maximum travel distance 30m
OV fd OV
30m max TD
OV OV
b. CORRIDOR ACCESS WITHOUT
DEAD ENDS D D D D D D D
maximum travel distance 30m
OV fd OV
30m max TD
D D D D
D D D

OV
c. CORRIDOR ACCESS
WITH DEAD ENDS D D D D D D D
maximum travel distance 30m
(maximum from dead end 7.5m) AOV fd fd fd fd AOV
central door may be omitted 30m max TD 30m max TD 7.5m max TD
if maximum travel distance is no D D D D D D D
more than 15m. OV
Key
OV openable vent at high level for fire service use (1.0m2 minimum free area)
AOV automatic opening vent at high level (1.5m2 minimum free area)
max TD maximum travel distance
D dwelling
fd self-closing FD20S fire door (other doors shown are FD30S fire doors)

Diagram 14 Common escape route in small single stair building

See para 3.19

D D
fd D

fd
fd
x fd D
ma OV fd
*4 .5m
fd
fd
fd OV
D
D fd
D fd D

a. SMALL SINGLE STAIR BUILDING b. SMALL SINGLE STAIR BUILDING

*If an automatic opening vent is provided WITH NO MORE THAN 2 DWELLINGS
in the lobby, the travel distance can be PER STOREY
increased to 7.5m maximum The door between stair and lobby should
(see Diagram 12, example b) be free from security fastenings.
If the dwellings have protected entrance
halls, the lobby between the common stair
Notes: and dwelling entrance is not essential
1 The arrangements shown also apply to the top storey.
2 If the travel distance across the lobby in Diagram 14a exceeds 4.5m, Diagram 12b applies.
3 If there is one dwelling per storey in Diagram 14b, then the entrance door to the dwelling may form part of the stair enclosure,
provided the dwelling has a protected entrance hall.

Key
fire-resisting construction
OV openable vent at high level for fire service use (1.0m2 minimum free area). (It may be replaced by a vent over the stair.)
D dwelling
fd self-closing FD30S fire door

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Small single-stair buildings Common escape routes
3.19 The provisions in paragraph 3.18 may be
modified and a single stair, protected in accordance Planning of common escape routes
with Diagram 14, may be used provided that: 3.21 Escape routes in the common areas should
a. the top floor of the building is no more comply with the limitations on travel distance in
than 11m above ground level; and Table 2. However there may be circumstances
where some increase on these maximum figures
b. there are no more than 3 storeys above will be reasonable.
the ground level storey;
Escape routes should be planned so that people do
c. the stair does not connect to a covered not have to pass through one stairway enclosure
car park, except if the car park is to reach another. However it is acceptable to pass
open-sided (see paragraph 12.4 for through a protected lobby of one stairway in order
meaning of open-sided car park); and to reach another.
d. the stair does not serve ancillary
accommodation unless: Protection of common escape routes
i. the storey containing the ancillary 3.22 To reduce the risk of a fire in a dwelling
accommodation does not contain any affecting the means of escape from other dwellings,
dwellings, and and common parts of the building, the common
corridors should be protected corridors.
ii. the ancillary accommodation is separated
from the stair by a protected lobby, or The wall between each dwelling and the corridor
protected corridor, which has not less should be a compartment wall (see Section 9).
than 0.4m2 permanent ventilation or is
protected from the ingress of smoke by Ventilation of common escape routes
a mechanical smoke control system. 3.23 Despite the provisions described in this
Approved Document, it is probable that some smoke
Flats and maisonettes with balcony or will get into a common corridor or lobby from a
deck access fire in a dwelling, if only because the entrance
3.20 The provisions of paragraph 3.18 may also door will be open when the occupants escape.
be modified in the case of flats and maisonettes There should therefore be some means of
with balcony or deck approach. Guidance on ventilating the common corridors/ lobbies to
these forms of development is set out in clause disperse smoke. (The ventilation also affords
13 of BS 5588 Fire precautions in the design, protection to the common stairs.)
construction and use of buildings, Part 1: 1990
Code of practice for residential buildings. a. In single stair buildings, other than small ones
complying with Diagram 14, and in any dead-
end portion of a building with more than one
Table 2 Limitations on distance of stair, the common corridor or lobby should be
travel in common areas of flat and ventilated by an automatic opening ventilator,
maisonette buildings triggered by automatic smoke detection
(see paragraph 3.21) located in the space to be ventilated. The
ventilator should have a free area of at least
Maximum distance of travel (m) from dwelling 1.5m2, and be fitted with a manual override.
entrance door to common stair, or to door to lobby in (See also Diagram 12 and Diagram 13c);
corridor-access single stair flats (Diagram 12a)
b. In buildings with more than one stair, common
Escape in one direction Escape in more than
only one direction
corridors should extend at both ends to the
external face of the building where there should
7.5m (1)(2) 30m (2)(3) be openable ventilators, which may operate
Notes: automatically, for fire service use (see Diagram
1. Reduced to 4.5m in the case shown in Diagram 14a. 13a and b). The free area of the ventilators
2. Where all dwellings on a storey have independent alternative should be at least 1.0m2 at each end of
means of escape, the maximum distance of travel does not the corridor.
apply. However see paragraph 17.3 (B5) which specifies fire
service access requirements. Sub-division of common escape routes
3. For sheltered housing, see paragraph 3.6.
3.24 A common corridor that connects two or
more storey exits should be sub-divided by a self-
closing fire door with, if necessary, any associated
fire-resisting screen (see Diagram 13). The door(s)
should be positioned so that smoke will not affect
access to more than one stairway.

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3.25 A dead end portion of a common corridor 3.32 Stairs provide a potential route for fire
should be separated from the rest of the corridor spread from floor to floor. In Section 9 under the
by a self-closing fire door with, if necessary, any requirement of B3 to inhibit internal fire spread,
associated fire-resisting screen (see Diagram 12a there is guidance on the enclosure of stairs to
and Diagram 13c). avoid this. A stair may also serve as a firefighting
stair in accordance with the requirement B5, in
Pressurization of common escape routes which case account will have to be taken of
guidance in Section 18.
3.26 Where the escape stairway and corridors/
lobbies are protected by a smoke control system
employing pressure differentials, the design should
Enclosure of common stairs
comply with BS 5588: Part 4 Fire precautions in 3.33 Every common stair should be situated
the design, construction and use of buildings, within a fire-resisting enclosure (ie it should be a
Code of practice for smoke control using pressure protected stairway), to reduce the risk of smoke
differentials. (In such cases the cross corridor fire and heat making use of the stair hazardous.
doors and the openable and automatically
3.34 The appropriate level of fire resistance is
opening vents may be omitted).
given in Appendix A Tables A1 and A2.
Ancillary accommodation, etc Exits from protected stairways
3.27 Stores and other ancillary accommodation
3.35 Every protected stairway should discharge:
should not be located within, or entered from, any
protected lobby or protected corridor forming part a. directly to a final exit; or
of the only common escape route from a dwelling
b. by way of a protected exit passageway to
on the same storey as that ancillary accommodation.
a final exit.
Reference should be made to paragraphs 6.50 to
6.53 for special provisions for refuse chutes and Separation of adjoining protected
storage areas. stairways
Escape routes over flat roofs 3.36 Where two protected stairways (or exit
passageways leading to different final exits)
3.28 If more than one escape route is available are adjacent, they should be separated by an
from a storey, or part of a building, one of those imperforate enclosure.
routes may be by way of a flat roof provided that
it complies with the provisions in paragraph 6.35. Use of space within protected stairways
Note: Access to designs described in paragraph 3.45 3.37 A protected stairway needs to be relatively
may also be via a flat roof if the route over the roof free of potential sources of fire. Consequently, it
complies with the provisions in paragraph 6.35. should not be used for anything else, except a lift
well or electricity meter(s). There are other
provisions for lifts in paragraphs 6.39 to 6.45 and
Common stairs guidance on the installation of electricity meters is
given in BS 5588 Fire precautions in the design,
Number of common stairs construction and use of buildings, Part 1 Code of
3.29 As explained in paragraph 3.18 and paragraph practice for residential buildings.
3.19 a single common stair can be acceptable in
some cases, but otherwise there should be access Fire resistance and openings in external
to more than one common stair for escape purposes. walls of protected stairways
3.38 The external enclosures to protected stairways
Width of common stairs should meet the provisions in paragraph 6.24.
3.30 A stair of acceptable width for everyday
use will be sufficient for escape purposes, but if Gas service and installation pipes in
it is also a firefighting stair, it should be at least protected stairways
1100mm wide (see paragraph [Link] for
measurement of width). 3.39 Gas service and installation pipes or associated
meters should not be incorporated within a
protected stairway unless the gas installation is in
Protection of common stairs accordance with the requirements for installation
and connection set out in the Pipelines Safety
General Regulations 1996, SI 1996 No 825 and the Gas
Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998
3.31 Common stairs need to have a satisfactory SI 1998 No 2451. (See also paragraph 9.41.)
standard of fire protection if they are to fulfil their
role as areas of relative safety during a fire
evacuation. The provisions in paragraphs 3.32
to 3.44 below should be followed.

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Basement stairs a. serves a floor not more than 6m above either

the ground level or a roof or podium which is
3.40 Because of their situation, basement itself served by an independent protected
stairways are more likely to be filled with smoke stairway; and
and heat than stairs in ground and upper storeys. b. meets the provisions in paragraph 6.25.
Special measures are therefore needed in order to
prevent a basement fire endangering upper storeys. Dwellings in mixed use buildings
These are set out in the following two paragraphs.
Note: See also paragraph 5.4.
3.41 If an escape stair forms part of the only
escape route from an upper storey of a building 3.47 In buildings with not more than 3 storeys
(or part of a building) which is not a small building above the ground storey, stairs may serve both
(see paragraph 3.19), it should not be continued dwellings and other occupancies, provided that
down to serve any basement storey. The the stairs are separated from each occupancy by
basement should be served by a separate stair. protected lobbies at all levels.
3.42 If there is more than one escape stair from 3.48 In buildings with more than 3 storeys above
an upper storey of a building (or part of a building), the ground storey, stairs may serve both dwellings
only one of the stairs serving the upper storeys and other occupancies provided that:
of the building (or part) need be terminated at
ground level. Other stairs may connect with the a. the dwelling is ancillary to the main use of the
basement storey(s) if there is a protected lobby, building and is provided with an independent
or a protected corridor between the stair(s) and alternative escape route;
accommodation at each basement level. b. the stair is separated from any other
occupancies on the lower storeys by
Stairs serving accommodation protected lobbies (at those storey levels).
ancillary to flats and maisonettes Note: The stair enclosure should have at
least the same standard of fire resistance as
3.43 Except where described in paragraph 3.19, stipulated in Table A2 for the elements of
where a common stair forms part of the only escape structure of the building (and take account
route from a dwelling, it should not also serve any of any additional provisions in Section 18 if it
covered car park, boiler room, fuel storage space is a firefighting stair).
or other ancillary accommodation of similar fire c. any automatic fire detection and alarm system
risk on the same storey as that dwelling. with which the main part of the building is fitted
3.44 Any common stair which does not form part also covers the dwelling;
of the only escape route from a dwelling may also d. any security measures should not prevent
serve ancillary accommodation if it is separated escape at all material times.
from the ancillary accommodation by a protected
lobby or a protected corridor. Note: Additional measures, including increased
periods of fire resistance between the dwelling
If the stair serves an enclosed car park or place and the storage area may be required where fuels
of special fire hazard, the lobby or corridor should such as petrol and LPG are present. Guidance on
have not less than 0.4m2 permanent ventilation this is referenced in BS 5588: Part 0 Fire precautions
or be protected from the ingress of smoke by a in the design, construction and use of buildings,
mechanical smoke control system. Guide to fire safety codes of practice for particular
premises/applications.
External escape stairs
3.45 If the building (or part of the building) is
served by a single access stair, that stair may be
external if it:
a. serves a floor not more than 6m above the
ground level; and
b. meets the provisions in paragraph 6.25.
3.46 Where more than one escape route is available
from a storey (or part of a building), some of the
escape routes from that storey or part of the
building may be by way of an external escape
stair provided that there is at least one internal
escape stair from every part of each storey
(excluding plant areas) and the external stair(s):

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Section 4
DESIGN FOR HORIZONTAL Escape route design
ESCAPE – BUILDINGS OTHER
Number of escape routes and exits
THAN DWELLINGS
4.2 The number of escape routes and exits to be
provided depends on the number of occupants in
Introduction the room, tier or storey in question, and the limits
on travel distance to the nearest exit given in
4.1 The general principle to be followed when Table 3.
designing facilities for means of escape is that
any person confronted by an outbreak of fire Note: It is only the distance to the nearest exit
within a building can turn away from it and make that should be so limited. Any other exits may be
a safe escape. This Section deals with the further away than the distances in Table 3.
provision of means of escape from any point to 4.3 In multi-storey buildings (see Section 5) more
the storey exit of the floor in question, for all types than one stair may be needed for escape, in
of building other than dwellinghouses, flats and which case every part of each storey will need to
maisonettes (for which refer to Sections 2 & 3). It have access to more than one stair. This does not
should be read in conjunction with the guidance prevent areas from being in a dead-end condition
on the vertical part of the escape route in Section 5 provided that the alternative stair is accessible in
and the general provisions in Section 6. case the first one is not usable.
It should be noted that guidance in this Section 4.4 In mixed use buildings, separate means of
is directed mainly at smaller, simpler types of escape should be provided from any storeys (or
buildings. Detailed guidance on the needs of parts of storeys) used for Residential or Assembly
larger, more complex or specialised buildings, and Recreation purposes.
can be found in the BS 5588 series of codes
and elsewhere (see paragraph [Link]). However, see also paragraphs 3.47 onwards
which describe the circumstances under which a
It should also be noted that although most of the dwelling may be served by a stair which connects
information contained in this Section is related to with other parts of a mixed use building.
general issues of design, special provisions apply
to the layouts of certain institutional buildings (see Single escape routes and exits
paragraphs 4.29 onwards).
4.5 In order to avoid occupants being trapped by
In the case of small shop, office, industrial, fire or smoke, there should be alternative escape
storage and other similar premises (ones with no routes from all parts of the building.
storey larger than 280m2 and having no more
than 2 storeys plus a basement storey), the However in the following situations a single route
guidance in clause 10 of BS 5588: Part 11: 1997 is acceptable:
Fire precautions in the design, construction and a. parts of a floor from which a storey exit can
use of buildings, Code of practice for shops, be reached within the travel distance limit for
offices, industrial, storage and other similar travel in one direction set in Table 3 (but see
buildings may be followed instead of the also paragraph 4.6) provided that, in the case
provisions in this Section. of places of assembly and bars, no one room
in this situation has an occupant capacity of
more than 60 people or 30 people if the building
is in Institutional use (Purpose Group 2a). The
calculation of capacity is described in [Link];
b. a storey (except one used for in-patient care
in a hospital) with an occupant capacity of not
more than 60 people, where the limits on travel
in one direction only are satisfied (see Table 3).
Note: For schools, see paragraph 5.5(b).

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Table 3 Limitations on travel distance

Maximum travel distance (1)
where travel is possible in:
Purpose group Use of the premises or one direction more than one
part of the premises only (m) direction (m)
2(a) Institutional (2) 9 18
2(b) Other residential
a. in bedrooms (3) 9 18
b. in bedroom corridors 9 35
c. elsewhere 18 35
3 Office 18 45
4 Shop and Commercial (4) 18 (5) 45
5 Assembly and Recreation
a. buildings primarily for disabled people except schools 9 18
b. schools 18 45
c. areas with seating in rows 15 32
d. elsewhere 18 45
6 Industrial (6) 25 45
7 Storage and other non-residential (6) 25 45
2-7 Place of special fire hazard (7) 9 (8) 18 (8)

2-7 Plant room or rooftop plant:

a. distance within the room 9 35
b. escape route not in open air (overall travel distance) 18 45
c. escape route in open air (overall travel distance) 60 100
Notes:
1. The dimensions in the Table are travel distances. If the internal 5. BS 5588: Part 10 applies more restrictive provisions to units
layout of partitions, fittings, etc is not known when plans are with only one exit in covered shopping complexes.
deposited, direct distances may be used for assessment. 6. In industrial and storage buildings the appropriate travel
The direct distance is taken as 2/3rds of the travel distance. distance depends on the level of fire risk associated with the
2. If provision for means of escape is being made in a hospital processes and materials being used. Control over the use of
or other health care building by following the detailed industrial buildings is exercised through the Fire Precautions
guidance in the relevant part of the Department of Health Act. Attention is drawn to the guidance issued by the Home
“Firecode”, the recommendations about travel distances in Office Guide to fire precautions in existing places of work
the appropriate “Firecode” document should be followed. that require a fire certificate Factories Offices Shops and
3. Maximum part of travel distance within the room. (This limit Railway Premises. The dimensions given above assume that
applies within the bedroom (and any associated dressing the premises will be of “normal” fire risk, as described in the
room, bathroom or sitting room, etc) and is measured to Home Office guidance. If the building is high risk, as assessed
the door to the protected corridor serving the room or suite. against the criteria in the Home Office guidance, then lesser
Sub-item (b) applies from that point along the bedroom distances of 12m in one direction and 25m in more than one
corridor to a storey exit.) direction, would apply.
4. Maximum travel distances within shopping malls are given 7. Places of special fire hazard are listed in the definitions in
in BS 5588: Part 10. Guidance on associated smoke control Appendix E.
measures is given in a BRE report Design methodologies for 8. Maximum part of travel distance within the room/[Link]
smoke and heat exhaust ventilation (BR 368). distance outside the room/area to comply with the limits for
the purpose group of the building or part.

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4.6 In many cases there will not be an alternative
at the beginning of the route. For example, there Table 4 Minimum number of escape
may be only one exit from a room to a corridor, routes and exits from a room, tier
from which point escape is possible in two or storey
directions. This is acceptable provided that the
overall distance to the nearest storey exit is within Maximum number Minimum number of
the limits for routes where there is an alternative, of persons escape routes/exits
and the ‘one direction only’ section of the route 60 1
does not exceed the limit for travel where there is 600 2
no alternative, see Table 3. Diagram 15 shows an more than 600 3
example of a dead-end condition in an open
storey layout. Alternative escape routes
4.8 A choice of escape routes is of little value if
Diagram 15 Travel distance they are all likely to be disabled simultaneously.
in dead-end condition Alternative escape routes should therefore satisfy
the following criteria:
See para 4.6
a. they are in directions 45° or more apart (see
Diagram 16); or
D
b. they are in directions less than 45° apart, but
are separated from each other by fire-resisting
construction.
A
45° +
(2.5° x distance CB)
Diagram 16 Alternative escape routes
B
See para 4.8(a)

B
E
C

Angle ABD should be at least 45° plus 2.5° for each metre A
travelled in one direction from point C. CBA or CBD 45° or less than 45° D
more
(whichever is less) should be no more than the maximum
distance of travel given for alternative routes, and CB should
C
be no more than the maximum distance for travel where there
are no alternative routes. Alternative routes are available from C because angle ACB
is 45° or more, and therefore CA or CB (whichever is the less)
should be no more than the maximum distance for travel
given for alternative routes.
Number of occupants and exits
Alternative routes are not available from D because angle
4.7 The figure used for the number of occupants ADB is less than 45° (therefore see Diagram 15).
will normally be that specified as the basis for the There is also no alternative route from E.
design. When the number of occupants likely to
use a room, tier or storey is not known, the
capacity should be calculated on the basis of the Inner rooms
appropriate floor space factors. Guidance for this
is set out in paragraph [Link] and Table 1. 4.9 A room from which the only escape route is
through another room is called an inner room. It is
Table 4 gives the minimum number of escape at risk if a fire starts in the other room, called the
routes and exits from a room, tier or storey access room.
according to the number of occupants. (This
number is likely to be increased by the need to Such an arrangement is only acceptable if the
observe travel distances, and by other practical following conditions are satisfied:
considerations.). a. the occupant capacity of the inner room
The width of escape routes and exits is the should not exceed 60 (30 in the case of a
subject of paragraph 4.16. building in purpose group 2a (Institutional));
b. the inner room should not be a bedroom;
c. the inner room should be entered directly off
the access room;
d. the escape route from the inner room should
not pass through more than one access room;

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e. the travel distance from any point in the inner
room to the exit(s) from the access room Diagram 17 Inner room
should not exceed the appropriate limit given and access
Diagram 3 Aroom
in Table 3; See para 4.9
f. the access room should not be a place of A B
special fire hazard and should be in the
control of the same occupier; and access room

g. one of the following arrangements should

be made:
room with inner room
i. the enclosures (walls or partitions) of the alternative
inner room should be stopped at least exits
500mm below the ceiling, or
ii. a suitably sited vision panel not less than
0.1m2 should be located in the door or
A needs no special provision.
walls of the inner room, to enable occupants
B should observe the
of the inner room to see if a fire has provisions in 4.9
started in the outer room, or
iii. the access room should be fitted with a
suitable automatic fire detection and alarm
system to warn the occupants of the inner Diagram 18 Exits in a central core
room of the outbreak of a fire in the
access room. See para 4.10

A A
Planning of exits in a central core
4.10 Buildings with more than one exit in a central
core should be planned so that storey exits are fda
remote from one another, and so that no two exits C
are approached from the same lift hall, common PS
L
lobby or undivided corridor, or linked by any of
these. (See Diagram 18). L
fd S fd
Access to storey exits L

4.11 Any storey which has more than one escape L

stair, should be planned so that it is not necessary PS
to pass through one stairway to reach another. C
However it would be acceptable to pass through one fda
stairway’s protected lobby to reach another stair.

A A

Note: The doors at both ends of the area marked ‘S’ should
be self-closing FD20S fire doors unless the area is
sub-divided such that any fire in that area will not be
able to prejudice both sections of corridor at the same
time. If that area is a lift lobby, doors should be provided
as shown in Figure 8 in BS 5588: Part 11: 1997.

Key
L lift
S services, toilets, etc.
fd self-closing FD20S fire doors
fda possible alternative position for fire door
C corridor off which accommodation opens
PS protected stairway
A accommodation (eg office space)

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HORIZONTAL ESCAPE B1
Separation of circulation routes from stairways Table 5 Widths of escape routes
4.12 Unless the doors to a protected stairway and and exits (1)
any associated exit passageway are fitted with an
automatic release mechanism (see Appendix B, Maximum number Minimum width
paragraph 3b), the stairway and any associated of persons mm (2)(3)(4)
exit passageway should not form part of the 50 750 (5)
primary circulation route between different parts 110 850
of the building at the same level. This is because 220 1050
the self-closing fire doors are more likely to be more than 220 5 per person (6)
rendered ineffective as a result of their constant use, Notes:
or because some occupants may regard them as 1. In schools, the minimum width of corridors in pupil areas
an impediment. For example the doors are likely to should be 1050mm (1600mm in dead-ends).
be wedged open or have their closers removed. 2. Refer to paragraph [Link] on methods of measurement
and width.
Storeys divided into different uses 3. In order to follow the guidance in the Approved Document to
Part M on minimum widths for areas accessible to disabled
4.13 Where a storey contains an area (which is
people, the widths given in the table may need to be increased.
ancillary to the main use of the building) for the
4. Widths less than 1050mm should not be interpolated.
consumption of food and/or drink by customers, then:
5. May be reduced to 530mm for gangways between fixed
a. not less than two escape routes should be storage racking, other than in public areas of Purpose
provided from each such area (except inner Group 4 (Shop & Commercial).
rooms which meet the provisions in 4.9); and 6. 5mm/person does not apply to an opening serving less
than 220 persons.
b. the escape routes from each such area should
lead directly to a storey exit without entering
any kitchen or similar area of high fire hazard.
Calculating exit capacity
Storeys divided into different occupancies 4.19 If a storey has two or more storey exits it
has to be assumed that a fire might prevent the
4.14 Where any storey is divided into separate occupants from using one of them. The remaining
occupancies (ie where there are separate exit(s) need to be wide enough to allow all the
ownerships or tenancies of different organisations): occupants to leave quickly. Therefore when deciding
a. the means of escape from each occupancy should on the total width of exits needed according to
not pass through any other occupancy; and Table 5, the largest exit should be discounted.
This may have implications for the width of stairs,
b. if the means of escape include a common because they should be at least as wide as any
corridor or circulation space, then either it storey exit leading onto them. Although some stairs
should be a protected corridor or a suitable are not subject to discounting (see paragraphs
automatic fire detection and alarm system 5.11 & 5.12), storey exits onto them will be.
should be installed throughout the storey.
4.20 The total number of persons which 2 or
Height of escape routes more available exits can accommodate is found
by adding the maximum number of persons for
4.15 All escape routes should have a clear each exit width. For example, 3 exits each 850mm
headroom of not less than 2m except in doorways. wide will accommodate 3 x 110 = 330 persons
(not the 510 persons accommodated by a single
Width of escape routes and exits exit 2550mm wide).
4.16 The width of escape routes and exits depends
on the number of persons needing to use them. Protected corridors
They should not be less than the dimensions 4.21 A corridor which serves a part of the means
given in Table 5. (Attention is also drawn to the of escape in any of the following circumstances
guidance in Approved Document M Access and should be a protected corridor:
facilities for disabled people.)
a. every corridor serving bedrooms;
4.17 Where the maximum number of people likely
to use the escape route and exit is not known, the b. every dead-end corridor (excluding recesses
appropriate capacity should be calculated on the and extensions shown in Figures 10 and 11 in
basis of the occupant capacity. Guidance is set BS 5588: Part 11: 1997 Code of practice for
out in paragraph [Link] and Table 1. shops, offices, industrial, storage and other
similar buildings); and
4.18 Guidance on the spacing of fixed seating for
auditoria is given in BS 5588: Part 6 Fire precautions c. any corridor common to two or more different
in the design, construction and use of buildings, occupancies (but see also paragraph 4.14).
Code of practice for assembly buildings.

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B1 HORIZONTAL ESCAPE
Enclosure of corridors that are not 4.24 If a dead-end portion of a corridor provides
protected corridors access to a point from which alternative escape
routes are available, there is a risk that smoke from
4.22 Where a corridor that is used as a means a fire could make both routes impassable before
of escape, but is not a protected corridor, is the occupants in the dead-end have escaped.
enclosed by partitions, those partitions provide
some defence against the spread of smoke in the To avoid this, unless the escape stairway(s) and
early stages of a fire, even though they may have corridors are protected by a pressurization system
no fire resistance rating. To maintain this defence complying with BS 5588: Part 4 Fire precautions
the partitions should be carried up to the soffit of in the design, construction and use of buildings,
the structural floor above, or to a suspended Code of practice for smoke control using pressure
ceiling, and openings into rooms from the corridor differentials, every dead-end corridor exceeding
should be fitted with doors, which need not be fire 4.5m in length should be separated by self-closing
doors. Open planning, while offering no impediment fire doors (together with any necessary associated
to smoke spread, has the compensation that screens) from any part of the corridor which:
occupants can become aware of a fire quickly. a. provides two directions of escape (see Diagram
19(a)); or
Sub-division of corridors
b. continues past one storey exit to another
4.23 If a corridor provides access to alternative (see Diagram 19(b)).
escape routes, there is a risk that smoke will
spread along it and make both routes impassable Cavity barriers
before all occupants have escaped.
4.25 Additional measures to safeguard escape
To avoid this, every corridor more than 12m long routes from smoke are given in Section 10 (B3),
which connects two or more storey exits, should see items 5, 6 & 7 in Table 13.
be sub-divided by self-closing fire doors (and any
necessary associated screens) so that the fire
door(s) and any associated screen(s) are positioned
approximately mid-way between the two storey
exits to effectively safeguard the route from smoke
(having regard to the layout of the corridor and to
any adjacent fire risks).

Diagram 19 Dead-end corridors

See para 4.24

fd fd

fd
fd

fd

fd
fd
fd fd

fd fd
fd
fd

fd
Key
protected corridor fd

fd self-closing fire door

fd fd

a. ‘T’ JUNCTION WITH b. CONTINUATION

MAIN CORRIDOR PAST STAIRWAY

Note: All fire doors (other than to the stairways) may be FD20S.

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HORIZONTAL ESCAPE B1
External escape routes Planning for progressive horizontal
4.26 Guidance on the use of external escape evacuation
stairs from buildings other than dwellings is given 4.30 The adoption of progressive horizontal
in paragraph 5.33. evacuation may be of value in some other
4.27 Where an external escape route (other than residential buildings. The following guidance is
a stair) is beside an external wall of the building, given for buildings to which the provisions of the
that part of the external wall within 1800mm of the “Firecode” documents are not applicable.
escape route should be of fire-resisting construction, 4.31 The concept of progressive horizontal
up to a height of 1100mm above the paving level evacuation allows progressive horizontal escape
of the route. to be made by evacuating into adjoining
compartments, or sub-divisions of compartments,
Escape over flat roofs in those areas used for inpatient care. The object
is to provide a place of relative safety within a short
4.28 If more than one escape route is available
distance, from which further evacuation can be
from a storey, or part of a building, one of those
made if necessary but under less pressure of time.
routes may be by way of a flat roof, provided that:
4.32 In planning a storey which is divided into
a. the route does not serve an Institutional
compartments for progressive horizontal evacuation,
building, or part of a building intended for
the following conditions should be observed.
use by members of the public; and
a. Adjoining compartments into which horizontal
b. it meets the provisions in paragraph 6.35.
evacuation may take place should each have a
floor area sufficient to accommodate not only
Hospitals and other residential care their own occupants but also the occupants
from the adjoining compartment. This should
premises of Purpose Group 2a be calculated on the basis of the design
occupancy of the compartments.
General
b. Each compartment should have at least one
4.29 Paragraph [Link] explains that the other escape route, independent of the route
Department of Health “Firecode” documents into the adjoining compartment, see Diagram
should be used in the design of health care and 20. This other route may be by way of a third
other institutional premises, where the normal compartment, provided the exit from that
principles of evacuation are inappropriate. compartment is independent of the exits from
the other compartments.

Diagram 20 Progressive horizontal evacuation

See para 4.32(b)
compartment walls

fire door fire door

(equivalent to storey exit) (equivalent to storey exit)

storey exit travel distance limits

apply to storey exits storey exit
in compartment
walls

compartment compartment compartment

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B1 VERTICAL ESCAPE
Section 5
DESIGN FOR VERTICAL ESCAPE Single escape stairs
– BUILDINGS OTHER THAN 5.5 Provided that independent escape routes
DWELLINGS are not necessary from areas in different purpose
groups in accordance with paragraph 5.4, the
situations where a building (or part of a building)
Introduction may be served by a single escape stair are:
a. from a basement which is allowed to have
5.1 An important aspect of means of escape a single escape route in accordance with
in multi-storey buildings is the availability of a paragraph 4.5b;
sufficient number of adequately sized and
protected escape stairs. This Section deals with b. from a building (other than small premises,
escape stairs and includes measures necessary see 5.5c) which has no storey with a floor level
to protect them in all types of building other than more than 11m above ground level, and in
dwellinghouses, flats and maisonettes (for which which every storey is allowed to have a single
see Sections 2 & 3). escape route in accordance with paragraph
4.5b (except that in schools, the storeys
This Section should be read in conjunction with above the first floor level should only be
the general provisions in Section 6. occupied by adults);
Note: In a 2-storey school building (or part of
Number of escape stairs a building) served by a single escape stair,
there should be no more than 120 pupils plus
5.2 The number of escape stairs needed in a supervisors on the first storey and no place
building (or part of a building) will be determined of special fire hazard. Classrooms and stores
by: should not open onto the stairway.
a. the constraints imposed in Section 4 on the c. in the case of small premises, in situations
design of horizontal escape routes; where the recommendations of clause 10 of
b. whether independent stairs are required in BS 5588 Fire precautions in the design,
mixed occupancy buildings (see paragraph 5.4); construction and use of buildings, Part 11:
1997 Code of practice for shops, offices,
c. whether a single stair is acceptable industrial, storage and other similar buildings,
(see paragraph 5.5); and are followed.
d. provision of adequate width for escape
(see paragraph 5.6) while allowing for the Width of escape stairs
possibility that a stair may have to be
discounted because of fire or smoke 5.6 The width of escape stairs should:
(see paragraph 5.11).
a. be not less than the width(s) required for any
5.3 In larger buildings, provisions for access exit(s) affording access to them;
for the fire service may apply in which case
some escape stairs may also need to serve as b. conform with the minimum widths given in
firefighting stairs. The number of escape stairs Table 6;
may therefore be affected by provisions made c. not exceed 1400mm if their vertical extent is
in Section 18, paragraphs 18.7 and 18.8. more than 30m, unless it is provided with a
central handrail (see notes 1 & 2 below); and
Mixed use buildings
d. not reduce in width at any point on the way
5.4 Where a building contains storeys (or parts of to a final exit.
storeys) in different purpose groups, it is important
to consider the effect of one risk on another. A fire Notes:
in a shop, or unattended office, could have serious
consequences on, for example, a residential or hotel 1. The 1400mm width has been given for stairs
use in the same building. It is therefore important in tall buildings because research indicates
to consider whether completely separate routes of that people prefer to stay within reach of a
escape should be provided from each different use handrail, when making a prolonged descent,
within the building or whether other effective means so that the centre part of a wider stair is little
to protect common escape routes can be provided. used and could be hazardous. Thus additional
(See paragraphs 3.47 and 3.48 for guidance where stair(s) may be needed.
dwellings are served by a stair which connects 2. Where a wider stair than 1400mm is provided
with other parts of a mixed use building). with a central handrail, then the stair width on
each side of the central handrail needs to be
considered separately for the purpose of
assessing stair capacity.

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VERTICAL ESCAPE B1
Table 6 Minimum widths of escape stairs
Situation of stair Maximum number of Minimum stair
of people served (1) width (mm)
1a. In an institutional building (unless the stair will only be used by staff) 150 1000
1b. In an assembly building and serving an area used for assembly 220 1100
purposes (unless the area is less than 100m2)
1c. In any other building and serving an area with an occupancy over 220 see Note (3)
of more than 50
2. Any stair not described above 50 800 (4)

Notes:
1. Assessed as likely to use the stair in a fire emergency.
2. BS 5588: Part 5 recommends that firefighting stairs should be at least 1100mm wide.
3. See Table 7 for sizing stairs for simultaneous evacuation, and Table 8 for phased evacuation.
4. In order to comply with the guidance in the Approved Document to Part M on minimum widths for areas accessible to disabled
people, this may need to be increased to 1000mm.

5.7 If the resultant width of the stair is more than a. are protected by a smoke control system
1800mm, then for reasons of safety in use the designed in accordance with BS 5588: Part 4
guidance in Approved Document K Protection Fire precautions in the design, construction
from falling, collision and impact is that, in public and use of buildings, Code of practice for
buildings the stair should have a central handrail. smoke control using pressure differentials; or
In such a case see Note 2 to paragraph 5.6.
b. are approached on each storey through a
5.8 Where an exit route from a stair also forms protected lobby (a protected lobby need not
the escape route from the ground and/or be provided on the topmost storey for the
basement storeys, the width may need to be exception still to apply).
increased accordingly.
Note: Paragraph 5.24 identifies several cases
where stairs need lobby protection.
Calculation of minimum stair width In such cases the likelihood of a stair not being
available is significantly reduced and it is not
General necessary to discount a stair. However, a storey
5.9 Every escape stair should be wide enough to exit needs to be discounted, see paragraph 4.19.
accommodate the number of persons needing to 5.13 The stair discounting rule applies to a
use it in an emergency. This width will depend on building fitted with a sprinkler system, unless the
the number of stairs provided and whether the stairs are lobbied or protected by a smoke control
escape strategy is based on the simultaneous system, as in 5.12.
evacuation of the building, or part of the building
(see paragraph 5.14) or phased evacuation (see Simultaneous evacuation
paragraph 5.18).
5.14 In a building designed for simultaneous
5.10 As with the design of horizontal escape routes, evacuation, the escape stairs (in conjunction with
where the maximum number of people needing to the rest of the means of escape) should have the
use the escape stairs is not known, the occupant capacity to allow all floors to be evacuated
capacity should be calculated on the basis of the simultaneously. In calculating the width of the
appropriate floor space factors. Guidance for this stairs account is taken of the number of people
is set out in paragraph [Link] and Table 1. temporarily housed in the stairways during the
evacuation.
Discounting of stairs
5.15 Escape based on simultaneous evacuation
5.11 Whether phased or simultaneous evacuation should be used for:
is used, where two or more stairs are provided it
should be assumed that one of them might not be a. all stairs serving basements;
available due to fire or smoke. It is therefore necessary b. all stairs serving buildings with open spatial
to discount each stair in turn in order to ensure that planning; and
the capacity of the remaining stair(s) is adequate
for the number of persons needing to escape. c. all stairs serving Other Residential or
Assembly and Recreation buildings.
5.12 Two exceptions to the above discounting
rules are if the escape stairs: Note: BS 5588 Fire precautions in the design,
construction and use of buildings, Part 7: Code of
practice for the incorporation of atria in buildings,
includes designs based on simultaneous evacuation.

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B1 VERTICAL ESCAPE

Table 7 Capacity of a stair for basements and for

simultaneous evacuation of the building
No. of
floors
served Maximum number of persons served by a stair of width:
1000mm 1100mm 1200mm 1300mm 1400mm 1500mm 1600mm 1700mm 1800mm
1. 150 220 240 260 280 300 320 340 360
2. 190 260 285 310 335 360 385 410 435
3. 230 300 330 360 390 420 450 480 510
4. 270 340 375 410 445 480 515 550 585
5. 310 380 420 460 500 540 580 620 660
6. 350 420 465 510 555 600 645 690 735
7. 390 460 510 560 610 660 710 760 810
8. 430 500 555 610 665 720 775 830 885
9. 470 540 600 660 720 780 840 900 960
10. 510 580 645 710 775 840 905 970 1035
Notes:
1. The capacity of stairs serving more than 10 storeys may be obtained by using linear extrapolation.
2. The capacity of stairs not less than 1100mm wide may also be obtained by using the formula in paragraph 5.17.
3. Stairs with a rise of more than 30m should not be wider than 1400mm unless provided with a central handrail (see paragraph 5.6).
4. Stairs wider than 1800mm should be provided with a central handrail (see paragraph 5.7).

5.16 Where simultaneous evacuation is to be Worked examples:

used, the capacity of stairs of widths from 1000
to 1800mm is given in Table 7. A 14 storey building comprises 12 storeys of
offices (ground + 11) with the top 2 storeys
5.17 As an alternative to using Table 7, the capacity containing flats served by separate stairs.
of stairs 1100mm or wider (for simultaneous What is the minimum width needed for the
evacuation) can be derived from the formula: stairs serving the office floors with a population
P = 200w + 50 (w – 0.3)(n – 1), or of 1200 people (excluding the ground floor
population which does not use the stairs),
w = P + 15n – 15 using simultaneous evacuation? Two stairs
150 + 50n satisfy the travel distance limitations.
where: a. The population is distributed evenly.
(P) is the number of people that can be served; As the top office storey is at a height greater
(w) is the width of the stair, in metres; and than 18m, both stairs need added protection
(see paragraph 5.24). Therefore if both stairs
(n) is the number of storeys served. are entered at each level via a protected lobby,
then both stairs can be assumed to be
Notes: available (see paragraph 5.12).
1. Stairs with a rise of more than 30m should not P = 1200/2 = 600, n = 11
be wider than 1400mm unless provided with a From the formula:
central handrail (see paragraph 5.6); 600 = 200w + 50 (w – 0.3)(11 – 1)
600 = 200w + (50w – 15)(10)
2. Separate calculations should be made for
600 = 200w + 500w – 150
stairs/flights serving basement storeys and
750 = 700w
those serving upper storeys;
w = 1070mm
3. The population ‘P’ should be divided by the
Therefore both stairs should be at least
number of available stairs; and
1070mm wide. But this needs to be increased
4. The formula is particularly useful when to 1100mm as the formula applies to stairs
determining the width of stairs serving a 1100mm or wider (see paragraph 5.17).
building (or part of a building) where the
b. The population is not distributed evenly
occupants are not distributed evenly – either
(eg 1000 people occupy floors 1 to 9, and 200
within a storey or between storeys.
occupy floors 10 & 11).
As the top office storey is at a height greater
than 18m, both stairs need added protection
(see paragraph 5.24). If both stairs are entered
at each level via a protected lobby, then both
stairs can be assumed to be available (see
paragraph 5.12).

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VERTICAL ESCAPE B1
To find the width of b. the lifts should be approached through a
protected lobby at each storey (see paragraph
• the stairs serving floors 10 & 11:
6.42);
P = 200/2 = 100, n = 2
c. every floor should be a compartment floor;
From the formula:
100 = 200w + 50 (w – 0.3)(2 – 1) d. if the building has a storey with a floor over
100 = 200w + (50w – 15)(1) 30m above ground level, the building should be
100 = 200w + 50w – 15 protected throughout by an automatic sprinkler
115 = 250w system meeting the relevant recommendations
w = 460mm of BS 5306: Part 2 Fire extinguishing installations
and equipment on premises, Specification for
Therefore both stairs between the 9th floor
sprinkler systems, ie the relevant occupancy
landing and the top floor should be at least
rating together with the additional requirements
460mm. But this needs to be increased to
for life safety; this provision would not apply to
1100mm as the formula applies to stairs
any Purpose Group 1(a) (flats) part of a mixed
1100mm or wider (see paragraph 5.17).
use building;
• the stairs serving floors 1 to 9:
e. the building should be fitted with an
P = 1200/2 = 600, n = 9 appropriate fire warning system, conforming
From the formula: to at least the L3 standard given in BS 5839:
600 = 200w + 50 (w – 0.3)(9 – 1) Part 1 Fire detection and alarm systems for
600 = 200w + (50w -15)(8) buildings, Code of practice for system design,
600 = 200w + 400w – 120 installation and servicing;
720 = 600w
f. an internal speech communication system
w = 1200mm
should be provided to permit conversation
Therefore both stairs between the 9th floor between a control point at fire service access
landing and the ground floor should be at least level, and a fire warden on every storey. In
1200mm wide. addition, the recommendations relating to
phased evacuation provided in BS 5839: Part 1
Note: In each example, the width will also be
should be followed where it is deemed
adequate when 1 storey exit is discounted in
appropriate to install a voice alarm, this should
accordance with paragraph 4.19 and also with the
be in accordance with BS 5839: Part 8 Code
need to comply with paragraph 5.6(a) (ie the stair
of practice for the design, installation and
is not less than the width found from Table 5).
servicing of voice alarm systems.
Phased evacuation 5.21 The minimum width of stair needed when
phased evacuation is used is given in Table 8.
5.18 Where it is appropriate to do so, it may be This table assumes a phased evacuation of not
advantageous to design stairs in high buildings on more than two floors at a time.
the basis of phased evacuation. In phased evacuation
the first people to be evacuated are all those of
reduced mobility and those on the storeys most Table 8 Minimum width of stairs
immediately affected by the fire, usually the floor designed for phased evacuation
of fire origin and the floor above. Subsequently, if
there is a need to evacuate more people, it is done Maximum number of
two floors at a time. It is a method which cannot people in any storey Stair width mm (1)
be used in every type of building, and it depends 100 1000
on the provision (and maintenance) of certain 120 1100
supporting facilities such as fire alarms. It does 130 1200
enable narrower stairs to be incorporated than 140 1300
would be the case if simultaneous evacuation 150 1400
160 1500
were used, and has the practical advantage of 170 1600
reducing disruption in large buildings. 180 1700
5.19 Phased evacuation may be used for any 190 1800
building provided it is not identified in paragraph Notes:
5.15 as needing simultaneous evacuation. 1. Stairs with a rise of more than 30m should not be wider
5.20 The following criteria should be satisfied in a than 1400mm unless provided with a central handrail
building (or part of a building) that is designed on (see paragraph 5.6).
the basis of phased evacuation: 2. As an alternative to using this table, provided that the
minimum width of a stair is at least 1000mm, the width may
a. the stairways should be approached through a be calculated from: [(P x 10) – 100]mm where P = the
protected lobby or protected corridor at each number
storey, except a top storey;

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B1 VERTICAL ESCAPE
Worked example using Table 8 a. where the stair is the only one serving a
building (or part of a building) which has more
What is the minimum width needed for the than one storey above or below the ground
stairs serving the office floors in the 14-storey storey (except for small premises covered in
building in the example to paragraph 5.17, paragraph 5.5c); or
assuming the population is distributed evenly.
b. where the stair serves any storey at a height
As both stairs need to be entered at each level greater than 18m; or
via a protected lobby (see paragraph 5.20a),
then both stairs can be assumed to be c. where the building is designed for phased
available (see paragraph 5.12). Therefore: evacuation (see paragraph 5.20a).
• number of persons per storey = 1200/11 In these cases protected lobbies or protected
= 109; corridors are needed at all levels, except the top
storey, and at all basement levels; or
• each stair must be able to accommodate half
the population of 1 storey (ie 109/2 = 55 persons) d. where the stair is a firefighting stair.
• the width of 1 stair to accommodate 55 persons Lobbies are also needed where that option in
is 1000mm (maximum capacity 100 persons) paragraph 5.12 has been used to not discount
one stairway when calculating stair widths.
• thus both stairs need to be not less than
1000mm wide. An alternative that may be considered in (a) to (c)
above is to use a smoke control system as
This width will also be adequate when 1 storey described in paragraph 5.12.
exit is discounted in accordance with paragraph
4.19 and the need to comply with paragraph 5.6(a) 5.25 A protected lobby should be provided
(ie the stair is not less than the minimum width between an escape stairway and a place of
needed for 109 persons in Table 5). special fire hazard. In this case, the lobby should
have not less than 0.4m2 permanent ventilation,
or be protected from the ingress of smoke by a
Protection of escape stairs mechanical smoke control system.
General Exits from protected stairways
5.22 Escape stairs need to have a satisfactory 5.26 Every protected stairway should discharge:
standard of fire protection if they are to fulfil their
role as areas of relative safety during a fire evacuation. a. directly to a final exit; or
The guidance in paragraphs 5.23 to paragraph b. by way of a protected exit passageway to a
5.31 should be followed to achieve this. final exit.
Enclosure of escape stairs Note: Doors may be situated in the enclosures to
the passageway, and lobbies will be needed to
5.23 Every internal escape stair should be a these doorways if the stairway is served by lobbies.
protected stairway (ie it should be within a
fire-resisting enclosure). 5.27 The exit from a protected stairway should
meet the provisions in paragraph 6.31.
However an unprotected stair (eg an accommodation
stair) may form part of an internal route to a storey Separation of adjoining stairways
exit or final exit, provided that the distance of
travel and the number of people involved are very 5.28 Where two protected stairways are adjacent,
limited. For example, small premises described in they, and any protected exit passageways linking
clause 10 of BS 5588: Part 11: 1997 Fire precautions them to final exits, should be separated by an
in the design, construction and use of buildings, imperforate enclosure.
Code of practice for shops, offices, industrial,
storage and other similar buildings and raised Use of space within protected stairways
storage areas. 5.29 A protected stairway needs to be free of
There may be additional measures if the protected potential sources of fire. Consequently, facilities
stairway is also a protected shaft (where it penetrates that may be incorporated in a protected stairway
one or more compartment floors, see Section 9) are limited to the following:
or if it is a firefighting shaft (see Section 18). a. sanitary accommodation or washrooms, so
long as the accommodation is not used as a
Access lobbies and corridors cloakroom. A gas water heater or sanitary
5.24 There are situations where an escape stair towel incinerator may be installed in the
needs the added protection of a protected lobby accommodation but not any other gas
or protected corridor. These are: appliance;
b. a lift well may be included in a protected
stairway, if it is not a firefighting stair;

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VERTICAL ESCAPE B1
c. a reception desk or enquiry office area at
ground or access level, if it is not in the only
stair serving the building or part of the building.
The reception or enquiry office area should not
be more than 10m2 in area;
d. cupboards enclosed with fire-resisting
construction, if it is not in the only stair serving
the building or part of the building.

External walls of protected stairways

5.30 The external enclosures to protected stairways
should meet the provisions in paragraph 6.24.

Gas service pipes in protected stairways

5.31 The reference to gas service pipes or
associated meters set out in paragraph 3.39, also
applies to buildings other than dwellings.

Basement stairs
5.32 The guidance on basement stairs in
paragraphs 3.40 to 3.42, also applies to buildings
other than dwellings

External escape stairs

5.33 If more than one escape route is available
from a storey (or part of a building), some of the
escape routes from that storey or part of the
building may be by way of an external escape
stair, provided that:
a. there is at least one internal escape stair
from every part of each storey (excluding
plant areas);
b. in the case of an Assembly and Recreation
building, the route is not intended for use by
members of the public; or
c. in the case of an Institutional building, the
route serves only office or residential staff
accommodation.
5.34 Where external stairs are acceptable as
forming part of an escape route, they should
meet the provisions in paragraph 6.25.

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B1 GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 6
GENERAL PROVISIONS COMMON 6.8 Where the relevant performance can be met in
terms of both integrity and insulation, there is no
TO BUILDINGS OTHER THAN restriction in this Approved Document on the use
DWELLINGHOUSES or amount of glass, but there are some restrictions
on the use of glass in firefighting stairs and lobbies
under the recommendations in clause 9 in BS 5588:
Introduction Part 5: 1991 Fire precautions in the design,
construction and use of buildings, Code of practice
6.1 This section gives guidance on the construction for firefighting stairs and lifts for robust construction
and protection of escape routes generally, and (which is referred to in Section 18).
on some services installations and other matters
associated with the design of escape routes. It 6.9 Attention is also drawn to the guidance on the
applies to all buildings other than dwellinghouses safety of glazing in Approved Document N Glazing
(refer to Section 2 for those). – safety in relation to impact, opening and cleaning.
It should therefore be read in conjunction with
Section 3 (in respect of flats and maisonettes), Doors on escape routes
and in conjunction with Sections 4 and 5 (in
respect of other buildings). 6.10 The time taken to negotiate a closed door
can be critical in escaping. Doors on escape
routes (both within and from the building) should
Protection of escape routes therefore be readily openable, if undue delay is to
be avoided. Accordingly the following provisions
Fire resistance of enclosures in paragraphs 6.11 to 6.18 should be met.
6.2 Details of fire resistance test criteria, and
standards of performance, are set out in Appendix A. Door fastenings
Generally a 30 minute standard is sufficient for the
6.11 In general, doors on escape routes (whether
protection of means of escape. The exceptions to
or not the doors are fire doors), should either not
this are when greater fire resistance is required by
be fitted with lock, latch or bolt fastenings, or they
the guidance on Requirements B3 or B5 or some
should only be fitted with simple fastenings that
other specific instance to meet Requirement B1,
can be readily operated from the side approached
in Sections 4 and 5.
by people making an escape. The operation of
6.3 All walls, partitions and other enclosures that these fastenings should be readily apparent and
need to be fire-resisting to meet the provisions without the use of a key and without having to
in this Approved Document (including roofs that manipulate more than one mechanism. This is not
form part of a means of escape), should have the intended to prevent doors being fitted with hardware
appropriate performance given in Tables A1 and to allow them to be locked when the rooms are
A2 of Appendix A. empty. There may also be situations such as hotel
bedrooms where locks may be fitted that are
6.4 Elements protecting a means of escape
operated from the outside by a key and from
should meet any limitations on the use of glass
the inside by a knob or lever etc.
(see paragraph 6.7).
6.12 In buildings where security on final exit doors
Fire resistance of doors is an important consideration, such as in some
Assembly and Recreation or Shop and Commercial
6.5 Details of fire resistance test criteria, and uses, panic bolts may be used. In non-residential
standards of performance, are set out in Appendix B. buildings it may also be appropriate to accept on
6.6 All doors that need to be fire-resisting to meet some final exit doors locks for security that are
the provisions in this Approved Document should used only when the building is empty. In these
have the appropriate performance given in Table B1 cases the emphasis for the safe use of these locks
of Appendix B. must be placed on management procedures.
Doors should also meet any limitations on the use 6.13 Guidance about door closing and ‘hold open’
of glass (see paragraph 6.7). devices for fire doors is given in Appendix B.

Fire resistance of glazed elements Direction of opening

6.7 Where glazed elements in fire-resisting 6.14 The door of any doorway or exit should, if
enclosures and doors are only able to satisfy the reasonably practicable, be hung to open in the
relevant performance in terms of integrity, the use direction of escape, and should always do so if
of glass is limited. These limitations depend on the number of persons that might be expected to
whether the enclosure forms part of a protected use the door at the time of a fire is more than 60.
shaft (see Section 9) and the provisions set out in
Appendix A, Table A4.

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GENERAL PROVISIONS B1
Note: With respect to industrial activities where Stairs
there is a very high fire risk with potential for rapid
fire growth, there will be a requirement for the Construction of escape stairs
door to open in the direction of escape for lower
numbers than 60. 6.19 The flights and landings of every escape
stair should be constructed of materials of limited
Amount of opening and effect on combustibility in the following situations:
associated escape routes a. if it is the only stair serving the building, or
6.15 All doors on escape routes should be hung part of the building, unless the building is of
to open not less than 90 degrees, and with a two or three storeys and is in Purpose Group
swing that is clear of any change of floor level, 1(a) or Purpose Group 3;
other than a threshold or single step on the line b. if it is within a basement storey (this does not
of the doorway (see paragraph 6.21) and does apply to a private stair in a maisonette);
not reduce the effective width of any escape route
across a landing. c. if it serves any storey having a floor level more
than 18m above ground or access level;
6.16 A door that opens towards a corridor or a
stairway should be sufficiently recessed to prevent d. if it is external, except in the case of a stair
its swing from encroaching on the effective width that connects the ground floor or paving level
of the stairway or corridor. with a floor or flat roof not more than 6m
above or below ground level. (There is further
Vision panels in doors guidance on external escape stairs in
paragraph 6.25); or
6.17 Vision panels are needed where doors on
escape routes sub-divide corridors, or where any e. if it is a firefighting stair (see Section 18).
doors are hung to swing both ways, but note also Note: In satisfying the above conditions combustible
the provision in Approved Document M Access materials may be added to the upper surface of
and facilities for disabled people, concerning these stairs (except in the case of firefighting stairs).
vision panels in doors across accessible corridors
and passageways and the provisions for the safety 6.20 There is further guidance on the construction
of glazing in Approved Document N Glazing – of firefighting stairs in Section 18. Dimensional
safety in relation to impact, opening and cleaning. constraints on the design of stairs generally, to
meet requirements for safety in use, are given in
Approved Document K, Protection from falling,
Revolving and automatic doors collision and impact.
6.18 Revolving doors, automatic doors and
turnstiles can obstruct the passage of persons Single steps
escaping. Accordingly, they should not be placed
across escape routes unless: 6.21 Single steps may cause falls and should
only be used on escape routes where they are
a. they are to the required width and are prominently marked. A single step on the line
automatic doors and either they: of a doorway is acceptable.
i. are arranged to fail safely to outward
opening from any position of opening, or Helical stairs, spiral stairs and fixed ladders
ii. are provided with a monitored failsafe 6.22 Helical stairs, spiral stairs (but not for pupils
system for opening the doors if the mains in schools) and fixed ladders may form part of an
supply fails, or escape route subject to the following restrictions.
iii. they fail safely to the open position in the a. helical and spiral stairs should be designed
event of power failure; or in accordance with BS 5395: Part 2 Stairs,
ladders and walkways, Code of practice for
b. non-automatic swing doors of the required the design of helical and spiral stairs and, if
width should be provided immediately adjacent they are intended to serve members of the
to the revolving or automatic door or turnstile. public, should be a type E (public) stair, in
accordance with that standard;
b. fixed ladders should not be used as a means of
escape for members of the public, and should
only be intended for use in circumstances where
it is not practical to provide a conventional stair,
for example as access to plant rooms that are
not normally occupied. Fixed ladders should
be constructed of non-combustible materials.
6.23 Guidance on the design of helical and spiral
stairs, and fixed ladders, from the aspect of safety
in use, is given in Approved Document K Protection
from falling, collision and impact.

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B1 GENERAL PROVISIONS
External walls of protected stairways Diagram 21 External protection
6.24 With some configurations of external wall, to protected stairways
a fire in one part of a building could subject the
external wall of a protected stairway to heat (for See para 6.24
example, where the two are adjacent at an internal
angle in the facade as shown in Diagram 21). If CONFIGURATIONS OF STAIRS
the external wall of the protected stairway has AND EXTERNAL WALL
little fire resistance, there is a risk that this could
prevent the safe use of the stair. Therefore, if:
a. a protected stairway projects beyond, or is accommodation
recessed from, or is in an internal angle of, the
1800mm minimum
adjoining external wall of the building; then
b. the distance between any unprotected area
in the external enclosures to the building and
any unprotected area in the enclosure to the
stairway should be at least 1800mm (see stair 1800mm minimum
Diagram 21).

External escape stairs

accommodation
6.25 Where an external escape stair is provided
in accordance with paragraph 3.45, paragraph CONFIGURATION A
3.46 or paragraph 5.33, it should meet the
following provisions:
a. all doors giving access to the stair should be
fire-resisting and self-closing, except that a accommodation
fire-resisting door is not required at the head
of any stair leading downwards where there
is only one exit from the building onto the
top landing;
stair 1800mm minimum
b. any part of the external envelope of the building
within 1800mm of (and 9m vertically below),
the flights and landings of an external escape
stair should be of fire-resisting construction, accommodation
except that the 1800mm dimension may be
reduced to 1100mm above the top level of the CONFIGURATION B
stair if it is not a stair up from a basement to
Key
ground level (see Diagram 22); fire-resisting construction
c. there is protection by fire-resisting construction non fire-resisting construction
for any part of the building (including any doors)
within 1800mm of the escape route from the
stair to a place of safety, unless there is a
choice of routes from the foot of the stair that
would enable the people escaping to avoid
exposure to the effects of the fire in the
adjoining building; and
d. any stair more than 6m in vertical extent is
protected from the effects of adverse weather
conditions. (This should not be taken to imply
a full enclosure. Much will depend on the
location of the stair and the degree of protection
given to the stair by the building itself); and
e. glazing in areas of fire-resisting construction
mentioned above should also be fire-resisting
(integrity but not insulation) and fixed shut.

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GENERAL PROVISIONS B1
Diagram 22 Fire resistance of areas adjacent to external stairs
See para 6.25

no fire resistance
required for door
EXAMPLE a.
window with
30 minute fire-resisting
1100mm construction
zone above
1800mm zone
top landing 8m
1. of fire-resisting
construction at
side of stair

6m maximum 30 minute self-closing

height of stair fire door

ground level or a roof

or podium served by an
independent stairway

EXAMPLE b.

1100mm
zone above
top landing

6m maximum
1.8m height of stair
without weather
protection
8m
1.

9m zone of
fire-resisting
construction
below stair ground level or
a roof or podium
served by an
independent
stairway
SECTION A-A SECTION B-B

B B
1.8m
1.8m

PLAN A

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B1 GENERAL PROVISIONS

General Escape routes over flat roofs

6.35 Where an escape route over a flat roof is
Headroom in escape routes provided in accordance with paragraph 3.28 or
6.26 All escape routes should have a clear paragraph 4.28, it should meet the following
headroom of not less than 2m and there should provisions:
be no projection below this height (except for a. the roof should be part of the same building
door frames). from which escape is being made;
Floors of escape routes b. the route across the roof should leads to a
storey exit or external escape route;
6.27 The floorings of all escape routes (including
the treads of steps, and surfaces of ramps and c. the part of the roof forming the escape route
landings) should be chosen to minimise their and its supporting structure, together with any
slipperiness when wet. opening within 3m of the escape route, should
be fire-resisting (see Appendix A Table A1); and
Ramps and sloping floors d. the route should be adequately defined and
6.28 Where a ramp forms part of an escape route guarded by walls and/or protective barriers
it should meet the provisions in Approved Document which meet the provisions in Approved
M Access and facilities for disabled people. Document K, Protection from falling, collision
and impact.
6.29 Any sloping floor or tier should be constructed
with a pitch of not more than 35° to the horizontal. Lighting of escape routes
6.30 Further guidance on the design of ramps and 6.36 All escape routes should have adequate
associated landings, and on aisles and gangways artificial lighting. Routes and areas listed in Table 9
in places where there is fixed seating, from the should also have escape lighting which illuminates
aspect of safety in use, is given in Approved the route if the main supply fails.
Document K Protection from falling, collision and
impact, and in Approved Document M Access Lighting to escape stairs should be on a separate
and facilities for disabled people. The design of circuit from that supplying any other part of the
means of escape in places with fixed seating is escape route.
dealt with in Section 4 by reference to BS 5588: Standards for the installation of a system of
Part 6 Fire precautions in the design, construction escape lighting are given in BS 5266: Part 1
and use of buildings, Code of practice for places Emergency lighting. Code of practice for the
of assembly. emergency lighting of premises other than
cinemas and certain other specified premises
Final exits used for entertainment, and CP 1007 Maintained
6.31 Final exits need to be dimensioned and lighting for cinemas.
sited to facilitate the evacuation of persons out
of and away from the building. Accordingly, they
should be not less in width than the minimum
width required for the escape route(s) they serve
and should also meet the conditions in the
following paragraphs 6.32 to 6.34.
6.32 Final exits should be sited to ensure rapid
dispersal of persons from the vicinity of the building
so that they are no longer in danger from fire and
smoke. Direct access to a street, passageway,
walkway or open space should be available. The
route clear of the building should be well defined,
and if necessary suitably guarded.
6.33 Final exits need to be apparent to persons
who may need to use them. This is particularly
important where the exit opens off a stair that
continues down, or up, beyond the level of the
final exit.
6.34 Final exits should be sited so that they are
clear of any risk from fire or smoke in a basement
(such as the outlets to basement smoke vents,
see Section 19), or from openings to transformer
chambers, refuse chambers, boiler rooms and
similar risks.

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GENERAL PROVISIONS B1
Table 9 Provisions for escape lighting
Purpose group of the building Areas requiring escape lighting
or part of the building
1. Residential All common escape routes (1), except in 2-storey flats
2. Office, Shop and Commercial (2) a. Underground or windowless accommodation
2. Industrial, Storage, Other non-residential b. Stairways in a central core or serving storey(s)
more than 18m above ground level
c. Internal corridors more than 30m long
d. Open-plan areas of more than 60m2
3. Shop and Commercial (3) and car All escape routes (1) (except in shops of 3 or fewer
3. parks to which the public are admitted storeys with no sales floor more than 280m2 provided
that the shop is not a restaurant or bar)
4. Assembly and Recreation All escape routes (1), and accommodation except for:
a. accommodation open on one side to view sport or
entertainment during normal daylight hours
b. parts of school buildings with natural light
and used only during normal school hours
5. Any purpose group a. Windowless toilet accommodation with a floor area
not more than 8m2
b. All toilet accommodation with a floor area over 8m2
c. Electricity and generator rooms
d. Switch room/battery room for emergency lighting system
e. Emergency control room
Notes:
1. Including external escape routes.
2. Those parts of the premises to which the public are not admitted.
3. Those parts of the premises to which the public are admitted.

Exit signs Lifts

6.37 Except in dwellings, every escape route (other
than those in ordinary use) should be distinctively Evacuation lifts
and conspicuously marked by emergency exit 6.39 In general it is not appropriate to use lifts
sign(s) of adequate size complying with the Health when there is a fire in the building because there
and Safety (Safety signs and signals) Regulations is always the danger of people being trapped in
1996. In general, signs containing symbols or a lift that has become immobilised as a result of
pictograms which conform to BS 5499: Part 1 the fire. However, in some circumstances a lift
Fire safety signs, notices and graphic symbols, may be provided as part of a management plan
Specification for fire safety signs, satisfy these for evacuating disabled persons. In such cases
regulations. In some buildings additional signs the lift installation needs to be appropriately sited
may be needed to meet requirements under and protected, and needs to contain a number
other legislation. of safety features that are intended to ensure that
Note: Advice on fire safety signs, including the lift remains usable for evacuation purposes
emergency escape signs, is given in an HSE during the fire.
publication: Safety Signs and Signals: Guidance Guidance on the necessary measures is given in
on Regulations. BS 5588: Part 8 Fire precautions in the design,
construction and use of buildings, Code of
Protected power circuits practice for means of escape for disabled people.
6.38 Where it is critical for electrical circuits to be
able to continue to function during a fire, protected Fire protection of lift installations
circuits are needed. A protected circuit for operation 6.40 Because lifts connect floors, there is the
of equipment in the event of fire should consist of possibility that they may prejudice escape routes.
cable meeting the requirements for classification To safeguard against this, the following conditions
as CWZ in accordance with BS 6387 Specification in paragraphs 6.41 to 6.45 should be met.
for performance requirements for cables required
to maintain circuit integrity under fire conditions. It 6.41 Lifts, such as wall-climber or feature lifts
should follow a route selected to pass only through which rise within a large volume such as a mall or
parts of the building in which the fire risk is atrium, and do not have a conventional well, may
negligible and should be separate from any circuit be at risk if they run through a smoke reservoir.
provided for another purpose. In which case care is needed to maintain the
integrity of the smoke reservoir, and protect the
occupants of the lift.

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B1 GENERAL PROVISIONS
6.42 Lift wells should be either: 6.48 Where a pressure differential system is
installed, ventilation and air conditioning systems
a. contained within the enclosures of a protected
in the building should be compatible with it when
stairway, or
operating under fire conditions.
b. be enclosed throughout their height with fire-
6.49 Guidance on the design and installation of
resisting construction if they are sited so as to
mechanical ventilation and air conditioning plant
prejudice the means of escape.
is given in BS 5720 Code of practice for mechanical
A lift well connecting different compartments ventilation and air conditioning in buildings, and
should form a protected shaft (see Section 9). on ventilation and air conditioning ductwork in
BS 5588: Part 9 Code of practice for ventilation
In buildings designed for phased or progressive
and air conditioning ductwork.
horizontal evacuation, where the lift well is not
contained within the enclosures of a protected Note: Paragraphs 9.41 and 11.10 also deal with
stairway, the lift entrance should be separated ventilation and air-conditioning ducts.
from the floor area on every storey by a
protected lobby.
Refuse chutes and storage
6.43 In basements and enclosed car parks the
lift should be approached only by a protected 6.50 Refuse storage chambers, refuse chutes and
lobby (or protected corridor) unless it is within refuse hoppers should be sited and constructed
the enclosure of a protected stairway. in accordance with BS 5906 Code of practice
This is also the case in any storey that contains for storage and on-site treatment of solid waste
high fire risk areas, if the lift also delivers directly from buildings.
into corridors serving sleeping accommodation. 6.51 Refuse chutes and rooms provided for the
Examples of fire risk areas in this context are storage of refuse should:
kitchens, lounges and stores.
a. be separated from other parts of the building
6.44 A lift shaft should not be continued down by fire-resisting construction; and
to serve any basement storey if it is:
b. not be located within protected stairways or
a. in a building (or part of a building) served protected lobbies.
by only one escape stair, and smoke from
a basement fire would be able to prejudice 6.52 Rooms containing refuse chutes, or provided
the escape routes in the upper storeys; or for the storage of refuse, should be approached
either directly from the open air or by way of a
b. within the enclosures to an escape stair protected lobby provided with not less than 0.2m2
which is terminated at ground level. of permanent ventilation.
6.45 Lift machine rooms should be sited over the 6.53 Access to refuse storage chambers should
lift well whenever possible. If the lift well is within not be sited adjacent to escape routes or final
a protected stairway which is the only stairway exits, or near to windows of dwellings.
serving the building (or part of the building), then
if the machine room cannot be sited above the lift
well it should be located outside the stairway (to Shop store rooms
avoid smoke spread from a fire in the machine room).
6.54 Fully enclosed walk-in store rooms in shops
(unless provided with an automatic fire detection
Mechanical ventilation and air and alarm system or fitted with sprinklers) should
conditioning systems be separated from retail areas with fire-resisting
construction (see Appendix A, Table A1) if they are
6.46 Any system of mechanical ventilation sited so as to prejudice the means of escape.
should be designed to ensure that in a fire the air
movement in the building is directed away from
protected escape routes and exits, or that the
system (or an appropriate section of it) is closed
down. In the case of a system which recirculates
air, it should meet the relevant recommendation
for recirculating distribution systems in BS 5588:
Part 9 Fire precautions in the design, construction
and use of buildings, Code of practice for ventilation
and air conditioning ductwork, in terms of its
operation under fire conditions.
6.47 Guidance on the use of mechanical ventilation
in a place of assembly is given in BS 5588: Part 6
Code of practice for places of assembly.

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INTERNAL FIRE SPREAD (LININGS) B2

The Requirement
This Approved Document which takes effect on
1 July 2000, deals with the following Requirement
from Part B of Schedule 1 to the Building
Regulations 1991.

Requirement Limits on application

Internal fire spread (linings)

B2.-(1) To inhibit the spread of fire within the building the
internal linings shall-
(a) adequately resist the spread of flame over their
surfaces; and
(b) have, if ignited, a rate of heat release which is reasonable
in the circumstances.
(2) In this paragraph “internal linings” mean the materials
lining any partition, wall, ceiling or other internal structure.

Approved Document B Internal fire spread (linings)

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B2 INTRODUCTION
Guidance
Performance Furniture and fittings
[Link] Furniture and fittings can have a major effect
In the Secretary of State’s view the requirement on fire spread but it is not possible to control them
of B2 will be met if the spread of flame over the through Building Regulations, and they are not dealt
internal linings of the building is restricted by with in this Approved Document. Fire characteristics
making provision for them to have low rates of of furniture and fittings may be controlled in some
surface spread of flame, and in some cases to buildings under legislation that applies to a
have a low rate of heat release, so as to limit the building in use, such as licensing conditions.
contribution that the fabric of the building makes
to fire growth. The extent to which this is necessary Classification of performance
is dependent on the location of the lining.
B2.v Appendix A describes the different classes
of performance and the appropriate methods of
Introduction test (see paragraphs 9-19). The main classifications
used are based on tests in BS 476: Fire tests on
Fire spread and lining materials building materials and structures, namely Part 6:
B2.i The choice of materials for walls and ceilings Method of test for fire propagation for products
can significantly affect the spread of a fire and its and Part 7: Method of test to determine the
rate of growth, even though they are not likely to classification of the surface spread of flame of
be the materials first ignited. products. However, Part 4: Non-combustibility
test for materials and Part 11: Method for assessing
It is particularly important in circulation spaces the heat emission from building products are also
where linings may offer the main means by which used as one method of meeting Class 0. Other
fire spreads, and where rapid spread is most likely tests are available for classification of thermoplastic
to prevent occupants from escaping. materials if they do not have the appropriate
Two properties of lining materials that influence rating under BS 476: Part 7 and three ratings,
fire spread are the rate of flame spread over the referred to as TP(a) rigid and TP(a) flexible and
surface when it is subject to intense radiant heating, TP(b), are used.
and the rate at which the lining material gives off Table A8, in Appendix A, gives typical performance
heat when burning. The guidance in this document ratings which may be achieved by some generic
provides for control of internal fire spread through materials and products.
control of these properties. This document does
not give guidance on other properties such as the
generation of smoke and fumes.

Floors and stairs

[Link] The provisions do not apply to the upper
surfaces of floors and stairs because they are not
significantly involved in a fire until well developed,
and thus do not play an important part in fire
spread in the early stages of a fire that are most
relevant to the safety of occupants.
However, it should be noted that the construction
of some stairs and landings is controlled under
Section 6, paragraph 6.19, and in the case of
firefighting stairs, Section 18, paragraph 18.11.

Other controls on internal surface properties

[Link] There is also guidance on the control of
flame spread inside buildings in two other Sections.
In Section 10 there is guidance on surfaces exposed
in concealed spaces above fire-protecting suspended
ceilings, and in Section 11 on enclosures to above
ground drainage system pipes.
Note: External flame spread is dealt with in
Sections 13-15; the fire behaviour of insulating
core panels used for internal structures is dealt
with in Appendix F.

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WALL AND CEILING LININGS B2

Section 7
WALL AND CEILING LININGS Variations and special provisions
Walls
Classification of linings
7.4 Parts of walls in rooms may be of a lower
7.1 Subject to the variations and specific provisions class than specified in paragraph 7.1 (but not
described in paragraphs 7.2 to 7.17 below, the lower than Class 3) provided the total area of
surface linings of walls and ceilings should meet those parts in any one room does not exceed one
the following classifications: half of the floor area of the room, subject to a
maximum of 20m2 in residential accommodation,
and 60m2 in non-residential accommodation.
Table 10 Classification of linings
Location Class (1) Fire-protecting suspended ceilings
Small rooms (2) of area not more than: 3 7.5 A suspended ceiling can contribute to the
a. 4m2 in residential accommodation; overall fire resistance of a floor/ceiling assembly.
b. 30m2 in non-residential accommodation. Such a ceiling should satisfy paragraph 7.1. It
Domestic garages of area not more than 40m2 should also meet the provisions of Appendix A,
Other rooms (2) (including garages) 1 Table A3.
Circulation spaces within dwellings
Fire-resisting ceilings
Other circulation spaces, including the
common areas of flats and maisonettes 0 7.6 Cavity barriers are needed in some concealed
floor or roof spaces (see Section 10), however this
Notes: need can be reduced by the use of a fire-resisting
1. see paragraph B2.v. ceiling below the cavity. Such a ceiling should
2. for meaning of room, see definition in Appendix E. comply with Diagram 35 which stipulates a Class
0 surface on the soffit.

Definition of walls Rooflights

7.2 For the purpose of the performance of wall 7.7 Rooflights should meet the relevant classification
linings, a wall includes: in 7.1. However plastic rooflights with at least a
a. the surface of glazing (except glazing in Class 3 rating may be used where 7.1 calls for a
doors); and higher standard, provided the limitations in Table 11
below and in Table 18 are observed.
b. any part of a ceiling which slopes at an angle
of more than 70° to the horizontal. Special applications
But a wall does not include: 7.8 Air supported structures should comply with
c. doors and door frames; the recommendations given in BS 6661 Guide for
the design, construction and maintenance of
d. window frames and frames in which glazing single-skin air supported structures.
is fitted;
7.9 Any flexible membrane covering a structure
e. architraves, cover moulds, picture rails, (other than an air supported structure) should
skirtings and similar narrow members; and comply with the recommendations given in
f. fireplace surrounds, mantle shelves and fitted Appendix A of BS 7157 Method of test for
furniture. ignitability of fabrics used in the construction
of large tented structures.
Definition of ceilings 7.10 Guidance on the use of PTFE-based materials
7.3 For the purposes of the performance of for tension-membrane roofs and structures is
ceiling linings, a ceiling includes: given in a BRE Report Fire safety of PTFE-based
materials used in buildings (BR 274, BRE 1994).
a. the surface of glazing;
b. any part of a wall which slopes at an angle
of 70° or less to the horizontal.
But a ceiling does not include:
c. trap doors and their frames;
d. the frames of windows or rooflights (see
Appendix E) and frames in which glazing is fitted;
e. architraves, cover moulds, picture rails,
exposed beams and similar narrow members.

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B2 WALL AND CEILING LININGS

Thermoplastic materials 7.16 Subject to the above paragraphs, ceilings to

rooms and circulation spaces (but not protected
General stairways) may incorporate thermoplastic lighting
diffusers if the following provisions are observed.
7.11 Thermoplastic materials (see Appendix A,
paragraph 16) which cannot meet the performance a. Wall and ceiling surfaces exposed within the
given in Table 10, can nevertheless be used in space above the suspended ceiling (other
windows, rooflights and lighting diffusers in than the upper surfaces of the thermoplastic
suspended ceilings if they comply with the panels) should comply with the general
provisions described in paragraphs 7.12 to 7.16 provisions of paragraph 7.1, according to the
below. Flexible thermoplastic material may be type of space below the suspended ceiling.
used in panels to form a suspended ceiling if it b. If the diffusers are of classification TP(a) (rigid),
complies with the guidance in paragraph 7.17. there are no restrictions on their extent.
The classifications used in paragraphs 7.12 to
7.17, Table 11 and Diagram 24 are explained in c. If the diffusers are of classification TP(b), they
Appendix A, paragraph 19. should be limited in extent as indicated in
Table 11 and Diagram 24.
Windows and internal glazing
Suspended or stretched-skin ceilings
7.12 External windows to rooms (though not to
circulation spaces) may be glazed with thermoplastic 7.17 The ceiling of a room may be constructed
materials, if the material can be classified as a either as a suspended or stretched skin membrane
TP(a) rigid product. from panels of a thermoplastic material of the
TP(a) flexible classification, provided that it is not
Internal glazing should meet the provisions in part of a fire-resisting ceiling. Each panel should
paragraph 7.1 above. not exceed 5m2 in area and should be supported
on all its sides.
Notes:
1. A “wall” does not include glazing in a door Diagram 23 Lighting diffuser
(see paragraph 7.2); in relation to ceiling
2. Attention is drawn to the guidance on the See para 7.14
safety of glazing in Approved Document N
Glazing – safety in relation to impact, opening a. DIFFUSER FORMING PART OF CEILING
and cleaning.

Rooflights
7.13 Rooflights to rooms and circulation spaces ceiling
(with the exception of protected stairways) may
be constructed of a thermoplastic material if:
a. the lower surface has a TP(a) (rigid) or TP(b) b. DIFFUSER IN FITTING BELOW AND NOT FORMING
classification; PART OF CEILING
b. the size and disposition of the rooflights
accords with the limits in Table 11 and with ceiling
the guidance to B4 in Table 19.

Lighting diffusers
7.14 The following provisions apply to lighting
diffusers which form part of a ceiling, and are not
concerned with diffusers of light fittings which are
attached to the soffit of, or suspended beneath a
ceiling (see Diagram 23).
Lighting diffusers are translucent or open-
structured elements that allow light to pass
through. They may be part of a luminaire or used
below rooflights or other sources of light.
7.15 Thermoplastic lighting diffusers should not
be used in fire-protecting or fire-resisting ceilings,
unless they have been satisfactorily tested as part
of the ceiling system that is to be used to provide
the appropriate fire protection.

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WALL AND CEILING LININGS B2

Table 11 Limitations applied to thermoplastic rooflights and lighting diffusers in
suspended ceilings and Class 3 plastic rooflights
Minimum Use of space below Maximum area of Max total area of diffuser Minimum separation
classification of the diffusers or each diffuser panels and rooflights distance between
lower surface rooflight panel or rooflight (1) as percentage of floor area diffuser panels or
of the space in which the rooflights (1)
(m2) ceiling is located (%) (m)
TP(a) any except No limit (2) No limit No limit
protected stairway
Class 3 (3) or rooms 5 50 (4)(5) 3 (5)
TP(b)
circulation spaces 5 15 (4) 3
except protected
stairways
Notes:
1. Smaller panels can be grouped together provided that the overall size of the group and the space between one group and any
others satisfies the dimensions shown in Diagram 24.
2. Lighting diffusers of TP(a) flexible rating should be restricted to panels of not more than 5 sq.m each, see paragraph 7.17
3. There are no limits on Class 3 material in small rooms.
4. The minimum 3m separation specified in Diagram 24 between each 5m2 must be maintained. Therefore, in some cases it may
not also be possible to use the maximum percentage quoted.
5. Class 3 rooflights to rooms in industrial and other non-residential purpose groups may be spaced 1800mm apart provided the
rooflights are evenly distributed and do not exceed 20% of the area of the room.

Diagram 24 Layout restrictions on Class 3 plastics rooflights, TP(b) rooflights

and TP(b) lighting diffusers
See Table 11

5m maximum dimension
of group of panels 5m max
3m minimum

5m2 is maximum area

of diffuser or rooflight in any
one 5m x 5m group
5m max

Key
3m minimum dimension
between groups of panels panel of diffuser
or rooflight

separated groups of
panels or rooflights

Notes:
a Upper and lower surface of suspended ceiling, between plastic panels, to comply with paragraph 7.1
b No restriction on Class 3 rooflights in small rooms
c See Note 5 to Table 11

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B3 INTERNAL FIRE SPREAD (STRUCTURE)

The Requirement
This Approved Document which takes effect on
1 July 2000, deals with the following Requirement
from Part B of Schedule 1 to the Building
Regulations 1991.

Requirement Limits on application

Internal fire spread (structure)

B3.-(1) The building shall be designed and constructed so
that, in the event of fire, its stability will be maintained for a
reasonable period.
(2) A wall common to two or more buildings shall be
designed and constructed so that it adequately resists the
spread of fire between those buildings. For the purposes of this
sub-paragraph a house in a terrace and a semi-detached house
are each to be treated as a separate building.
(3) To inhibit the spread of fire within the building, it shall Requirement B3(3) does not apply to
be sub-divided with fire-resisting construction to an extent material alterations to any prison
appropriate to the size and intended use of the building. provided under section 33 of the
(4) The building shall be designed and constructed so that Prisons Act 1952.
the unseen spread of fire and smoke within concealed spaces
in its structure and fabric is inhibited.

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INTRODUCTION B3
Guidance
Performance [Link] “Elements of structure” is the term applied
to the main structural loadbearing elements, such
In the Secretary of State’s view the requirements as structural frames, floors and loadbearing walls.
of B3 will be met: Compartment walls are treated as elements of
structure although they are not necessarily
a. if the loadbearing elements of structure of the loadbearing. Roofs, unless they serve the function
building are capable of withstanding the effects of a floor, are not treated as elements of structure.
of fire for an appropriate period without loss External walls such as curtain walls or other forms
of stability; of cladding which transmit only self weight and
b. if the building is sub-divided by elements of wind loads and do not transmit floor load are not
fire-resisting construction into compartments; regarded as loadbearing for the purposes of
[Link](a) although they may need fire resistance to
c. if any openings in fire-separating elements satisfy requirement B4 (see sections 13 – 14).
(see Appendix E) are suitably protected in
order to maintain the integrity of the element Loadbearing elements may or may not have a
(ie the continuity of the fire separation); and fire-separating function. Similarly, fire-separating
elements may or may not be loadbearing.
d. if any hidden voids in the construction are
sealed and subdivided to inhibit the unseen Guidance elsewhere in the Approved
spread of fire and products of combustion, in Document concerning fire resistance
order to reduce the risk of structural failure,
and the spread of fire, in so far as they pose [Link] There is guidance in Sections 2 – 6 concerning
a threat to the safety of people in and around the use of fire-resisting construction to protect
the building. means of escape. There is guidance in Section 13
about fire resistance of external walls to restrict the
The extent to which any of these measures are spread of fire between buildings. There is guidance
necessary is dependent on the use of the in Section 18 about fire resistance in the construction
building, and in some cases its size, and on the of firefighting shafts. Appendix A gives information
location of the element of construction. on methods of test and performance for elements
of construction. Appendix B gives information on
Introduction fire doors. Appendix C gives information on
methods of measurement. Appendix D gives
B3.i Guidance on loadbearing elements of structure information on purpose group classification.
is given in Section 8. Section 9 is concerned with Appendix E gives definitions.
the subdivision of a building into compartments,
and Section 10 makes provisions about concealed
spaces (or cavities). Section 11 gives information
on the protection of openings and on fire-stopping
which relates to compartmentation and to fire spread
in concealed spaces. Section 12 is concerned
with special measures which apply to car parks
and shopping complexes. Common to all these
sections, and to other provisions of Part B, is the
property of fire resistance.

Fire resistance
[Link] The fire resistance of an element of
construction is a measure of its ability to withstand
the effects of fire in one or more ways, as follows:
a. resistance to collapse, ie the ability to
maintain loadbearing capacity (which applies
to loadbearing elements only);
b. resistance to fire penetration, ie an ability to
maintain the integrity of the element;
c. resistance to the transfer of excessive heat,
ie an ability to provide insulation from high
temperatures.

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B3 LOADBEARING ELEMENTS
Section 8
LOADBEARING ELEMENTS a. structure that only supports a roof, unless:
OF STRUCTURE i. the roof performs the function of a floor,
such as for parking vehicles, or as a
means of escape (see Sections 2 – 6), or
Introduction
ii. the structure is essential for the stability of
8.1 Premature failure of the structure can be an external wall which needs to have fire
prevented by provisions for loadbearing elements resistance;
of structure to have a minimum standard of fire b. the lowest floor of the building;
resistance, in terms of resistance to collapse or
failure of loadbearing capacity. The purpose in c. a platform floor; and
providing the structure with fire resistance is d. a loading gallery, fly gallery, stage grid, lighting
threefold, namely: bridge, or any gallery provided for similar
a. to minimise the risk to the occupants, some of purposes or for maintenance and repair
whom may have to remain in the building for (see definition of “Element of structure” in
some time while evacuation proceeds if the Appendix E).
building is a large one;
Additional guidance
b. to reduce the risk to fire fighters, who may be
engaged on search or rescue operations; 8.5 Guidance in other sections of this Approved
Document may also apply if a loadbearing wall is:
c. to reduce the danger to people in the vicinity
of the building, who might be hurt by falling a. a compartment wall (this includes a wall
debris or as a result of the impact of the common to two buildings), (see Section 9);
collapsing structure on other buildings. b. a wall between a house and a domestic
garage, (see Section 9, paragraph 9.14);
Fire resistance standard c. a wall enclosing a place of special fire hazard
(see Section 9, paragraph 9.12);
8.2 Structural frames, beams, columns, loadbearing
walls (internal and external), floor structures and d. protecting a means of escape, (see Sections
gallery structures, should have at least the fire 2 – 6);
resistance given in Appendix A, Table A1. e. an external wall, (see Sections 13 & 14); or
f. enclosing a firefighting shaft, (see Section 18).
Application of the fire resistance standards
for loadbearing elements 8.6 If a floor is also a compartment floor, see
Section 9.
8.3 The measures set out in Appendix A include
provisions to ensure that where one element of
structure supports or gives stability to another Floors in domestic loft
element of structure, the supporting element has conversions
no less fire resistance than the other element (see
notes to Table A2). The measures also provide for 8.7 In altering an existing two storey single family
elements of structure that are common to more dwellinghouse to provide additional storeys, the
than one building or compartment, to be constructed provisions in this Approved Document are for the
to the standard of the greater of the relevant floor(s), both old and new, to have the full 30
provisions. Special provisions about fire resistance minute standard of fire resistance shown in
of elements of structure in single storey buildings Appendix A, Table A1. However provided that the
are also given, and there are concessions in following conditions are satisfied, namely:
respect of fire resistance of elements of structure
in basements where at least one side of the a. only one storey is being added;
basement is open at ground level. b. the new storey contains no more than 2
habitable rooms; and
Exclusions from the provisions for
elements of structure c. the total area of the new storey does not
amount to more than 50m2;
8.4 The following are excluded from the definition
of element of structure for the purposes of these then the existing first floor construction may be
provisions: accepted if it has at least a modified 30 minute
standard of fire resistance, in those places where:
d. the floor separates only rooms (and not
circulation spaces); provided that
e. the particular provisions for loft conversions in
Section 2, paragraphs 2.17-2.26, are met.

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LOADBEARING ELEMENTS B3
Notes: Conversion to flats
1. The ‘modified 30 minute’ standard satisfies
the test criteria for the full 30 minutes in respect 8.10 Where an existing house or other building is
of loadbearing capacity, but allows reduced converted into flats there is a material change of
performances for integrity and insulation (see use to which Part B of the regulations applies.
Appendix A, Table A1, item 3(a)). Where the existing building has timber floors and
these are to be retained, the relevant provisions
2. Sub-paragraph (d) above means that the floor for fire resistance may be difficult to meet.
needs a full 30 minutes standard where it
forms part of the enclosures to the circulation 8.11 Provided that the means of escape conform
space between the loft conversion and the to Section 3, and are adequately protected, a
final exit. 30 minute standard of fire resistance could be
accepted for the elements of structure in a building
having not more than 3 storeys.
Raised storage areas Where the altered building has 4 or more storeys
the full standard of fire resistance given in
8.8 Raised free standing floors (sometimes
Appendix A would normally be necessary.
supported by racking) are frequently erected in
single storey industrial buildings. Whether the
structure is considered as a gallery or is of
sufficient size that it is considered as a floor
forming an additional storey, the normal provisions
for fire resistance of elements of structure may be
onerous if applied to the raised storage area.
8.9 A structure which does not have the
appropriate fire resistance given in Appendix A,
Table A1 is acceptable provided the following
conditions are satisfied:
a. the structure has only one tier and is used for
storage purposes only;
b. the number of persons likely to be on the floor
at any one time is low and does not include
members of the public;
c. the floor is not more than 10m in either width
or length and does not exceed one half of the
floor area of the space in which it is situated;
d. the floor is open above and below to the room
or space in which it is situated; and
e. the means of escape from the floor meets the
relevant provisions in Sections 4, 5 and 6.

Notes:
1. Where the lower level is provided with an
automatic detection and alarm system meeting
the relevant recommendations of BS 5839:
Part 1 Fire detection and alarm systems for
buildings, Code of practice for system design,
installation and servicing, then the floor size
may be increased to not more than 20m in
either width or length.
2. Where the building is fitted throughout with
an automatic sprinkler system meeting the
relevant recommendations of BS 5306: Part 2
Fire extinguishing installations and equipment
on premises, Specification for sprinkler systems,
ie the relevant occupancy rating together with
the additional requirements for life safety,
there are no limits on the size of the floor.

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B3 COMPARTMENTATION
Section 9
COMPARTMENTATION Junctions
9.6 For compartmentation to be effective, there
Introduction should be continuity at the junctions of the fire-
resisting elements enclosing a compartment, and
9.1 The spread of fire within a building can be any openings from one compartment to another
restricted by sub-dividing it into compartments should not present a weakness.
separated from one another by walls and/or floors
of fire-resisting construction. The object is twofold: Protected shafts
a. to prevent rapid fire spread which could trap 9.7 Spaces that connect compartments, such as
occupants of the building; and stairways and service shafts, need to be protected
to restrict fire spread between the compartments,
b. to reduce the chance of fires becoming large, and they are termed protected shafts. Any walls
on the basis that large fires are more dangerous, or floors bounding a protected shaft are considered
not only to occupants and fire service personnel, to be compartment walls or floors, for the purpose
but to people in the vicinity of the building. of this Approved Document.
Compartmentation is complementary to
provisions made in Sections 2 – 6 for the Buildings containing one or more atria
protection of escape routes, and to provisions
made in Sections 13-15 against the spread of 9.8 Detailed advice on all issues relating to the
fire between buildings. incorporation of atria in buildings is given in
BS 5588: Part 7 Fire precautions in the design,
9.2 The appropriate degree of sub-division construction and use of buildings, Code of practice
depends on: for the incorporation of atria in buildings. However
a. the use of, and fire load in, the building, which it should be noted that for the purposes of
affects the potential for fires and the severity Approved Document B, the standard is relevant only
of fires, as well as the ease of evacuation; where the atrium breaches any compartmentation.
b. the height to the floor of the top storey in the
building, which is an indication of the ease of Provision of compartmentation
evacuation and the ability of the fire service to
intervene effectively; and General
c. the availability of a sprinkler system which 9.9 Compartment walls and compartment floors
affects the growth rate of the fire, and may should be provided in the circumstances described
suppress it altogether. below, with the proviso that the lowest floor in a
9.3 Sub-division is achieved using compartment building does not need to be constructed as a
walls and compartment floors. The circumstances compartment floor. Paragraphs 9.10 – 9.20 give
in which they are needed are given in paragraphs guidance on the provision of compartmentation
9.9 to 9.20. in different building types. Information on the
construction of compartment walls and compartment
9.4 Provisions for the construction of compartment floors in different circumstances is given in
walls and compartment floors are given in paragraphs 9.21 et seq. Provisions for the
paragraphs 9.21 et seq. These construction protection of openings in compartment walls and
provisions vary according to the function of the compartment floors are given in paragraphs 9.33
wall or floor. et seq.

Special forms of compartmentation All purpose groups

9.5 Special forms of compartmentation to which 9.10 A wall common to two or more buildings
particular construction provisions apply, are: should be constructed as a compartment wall.
a. walls common to two or more buildings, see 9.11 Parts of a building that are occupied mainly
paragraph 9.23; for different purposes, should be separated from
b. walls dividing buildings into separated parts, one another by compartment walls and/or
see paragraph 9.24; compartment floors. This does not apply where
one of the different purposes is ancillary to the
c. construction enclosing places of special fire other. Refer to Appendix D for guidance on
hazard, see paragraph 9.12; and whether a function should be regarded as
d. construction protecting houses from attached or ancillary or not.
integral domestic garages, see paragraph 9.14.

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COMPARTMENTATION B3
Places of special fire hazard Institutional buildings including health care
9.12 Every place of special fire hazard (see 9.16 All floors should be constructed as
Appendix E) should be enclosed with fire-resisting compartment floors.
construction; see Table A1, item 15.
9.17 Compartments should not exceed 2000m2
Note: Any such walls and floors are not in multi-storey hospitals and 3000m2 in single
compartment walls and compartment floors. storey hospitals.
9.18 Every upper storey used for in-patient care
Houses should be divided into at least two compartments
9.13 Every wall separating semi-detached houses, in such a way as to permit progressive horizontal
or houses in terraces, should be constructed as evacuation of each compartment. (See Section 4,
a compartment wall, and the houses should be paragraph 4.31.)
considered as separate buildings.
9.14 If a domestic garage is attached to (or forms
Other residential buildings
an integral part of) a house, the garage should be 9.19 All floors should be constructed as
separated from the rest of the house, as shown in compartment floors.
Diagram 25.
Note: The walls and floors shown in Diagram 25 Non-residential buildings
are not compartment walls and compartment floors 9.20 The following walls and floors should be
and that the 100mm difference in level between constructed as compartment walls and compartment
the garage floor and the door opening is to prevent floors in buildings of a non-residential purpose
any leakage of petrol vapour into the dwelling. group (ie Office, Shop & Commercial, Assembly
& Recreation, Industrial, Storage or Other non-
Diagram 25 Separation between residential):
garage and dwellinghouse a. every wall needed to sub-divide the building
to observe the size limits on compartments
See para 9.14 given in Table 12 (see Diagram 26a);
b. every floor if the building, or separated part
house (see paragraph 9.24) of the building, has a
storey with a floor at a height of more than
30m above ground level (see Diagram 26b);
c. the floor of the ground storey if the building
wall and any floor has one or more basements (see Diagram
between garage 26c), with the exception of small premises
and house to have (see paragraph 4.1);
30 minutes fire
100mm resistance; any d. the floor of every basement storey (except the
opening in the wall lowest floor) if the building, or separated part
to be at least (see paragraph 9.24), has a basement at a
100mm above depth of more than 10m below ground level
garage garage floor level (see Diagram 26d);
with a FD30 door
e. if the building forms part of a Shopping
Complex, every wall and floor described in
Section 5 of BS 5588: Part 10: 1991 Fire
Flats precautions in the design, construction and
use of buildings, Code of practice for shopping
9.15 In buildings containing flats or maisonettes complexes as needing to be constructed to
the following should be constructed as the standard for a compartment wall or
compartment walls or compartment floors: compartment floor; and
a. every floor (unless it is within a maisonette, f. if the building comprises Shop & Commercial,
ie between one storey and another within one Industrial or Storage premises, every wall or
dwelling); and floor provided to divide a building into separate
b. every wall separating a flat or maisonette from occupancies, (ie spaces used by different
any other part of the building; and organisations whether they fall within the
same Purpose Group or not).
Note: “any other part of the building” does not
include an external balcony/deck access. Note: See also the provision in paragraph 6.54 for
store rooms in shops to be separated from retail
c. every wall enclosing a refuse storage chamber. areas by fire-resisting construction to the standard
given in Table A1.

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B3 COMPARTMENTATION

Diagram 26 Compartment floors: illustration of guidance in paragraph 9.20

A. EXAMPLE OF COMPARTMENTATION IN AN
UNSPRINKLERED SHOP see para 9.20(a)

None of the floors in this case would need to be

compartment floors, but the 2 storeys exceeding
2000 sq.m would need to be divided into
compartments not more than 2000 sq.m by
compartment walls. storey not exceeding
2000 sq.m

roof
storey not exceeding
2000 sq.m

comp.
wall
up to storey exceeding
30m high 2000 sq.m divided by
compartment wall

B. COMPARTMENTATION comp.
IN TALL BUILDINGS wall
see para 9.20(b)
storey exceeding
2000 sq.m divided by
compartment wall

The compartment walls in example (a) do not

need to be in one vertical plane

D. DEEP BASEMENTS
see para 9.20(d)

All basement storeys to be

separated by compartment
C. SHALLOW BASEMENTS floors if any storey is at a
see para 9.20(c) depth of more than 10m

Only the floor of the ground

storey need be a compartment
floor if the lower basement is
at a depth of not more than 10m

In a building over 30m in

height all storeys should be
separated by compartment
floors. For advice on the
special conditions in atrium
buildings see B5588: Part 7.

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COMPARTMENTATION B3
Table 12 Maximum dimensions of building or compartment
(non-residential buildings)
Purpose Group of Height of floor of top storey Floor area of any one storey in the building
building or part above ground level (m) or any one storey in a compartment (m2)
in multi-storey in single storey
buildings buildings
Office no limit no limit no limit
Assembly & Recreation
Shop & Commercial:
a. schools no limit 800 800
b. shops – not sprinklered no limit 2000 2000
b. shops – sprinklered (1) no limit 4000 no limit
c. elsewhere – not sprinklered no limit 2000 no limit
c. elsewhere – sprinklered (1) no limit 4000 no limit
Industrial (2)

c. not sprinklered not more than 18 7000 no limit

more than 18 2000 (3) no limit
c. sprinklered (1) not more than 18 14000 no limit
more than 18 4000 (3) no limit
Height of floor of top Maximum compartment volume (m3)
storey above ground in multi-storey in single storey
level (m) buildings buildings
Storage (2) & Other non-residential:
a. car park for light vehicles no limit no limit no limit
b. any other building or part:
b. not sprinklered not more than 18 20000 no limit
more than 18 4000 (3) no limit
b. sprinklered (1) not more than 18 40000 no limit
more than 18 8000 (3) no limit
Notes:
1. “Sprinklered” means that the building is fitted throughout with an automatic sprinkler system meeting the relevant
recommendations of BS 5306: Part 2, ie the relevant occupancy rating together with the additional requirements for life safety.
2. There may be additional limitations on floor area and/or sprinkler provisions in certain industrial and storage uses under other
legislation, for example in respect of storage of LPG and certain chemicals.
3. This reduced limit applies only to storeys that are more than 18m above ground level. Below this height the higher limit applies.

Construction of compartment 9.22 Every compartment wall and compartment

floor should:
walls and compartment floors
a. form a complete barrier to fire between the
General compartments they separate; and
9.21 In a two storey building in the shop, b. have the appropriate fire resistance as
commercial or industrial Purpose Groups, where indicated in Appendix A, Tables A1 and A2.
the use of the upper storey is ancillary to the use Note: Timber beams, joists, purlins and rafters
of the ground storey, the ground storey may be may be built into or carried through a masonry or
treated as a single storey building for fire concrete compartment wall if the openings for
compartmentation purposes, provided that: them are kept as small as practicable and then
a. the area of the upper storey does not exceed fire-stopped. If trussed rafters bridge the wall,
20% of the area of the ground storey, or 500m2, they should be designed so that failure of any part
whichever is less; of the truss due to a fire in one compartment will
not cause failure of any part of the truss in
b. the upper storey is compartmented from the another compartment.
lower one; and
c. there is a means of escape from the upper
storey that is independent of the routes from
the lower storey.

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B3 COMPARTMENTATION
Compartment walls between buildings Junction of compartment wall or
9.23 Compartment walls that are common to two compartment floor with other walls
or more buildings should run the full height of the 9.27 Where a compartment wall or compartment
building in a continuous vertical plane. Thus floor meets another compartment wall, or an
adjoining buildings should only be separated by external wall, the junction should maintain the fire
walls, not floors. resistance of the compartmentation.

Separated parts of buildings Junction of compartment wall with roof

9.24 Compartment walls used to form a separated 9.28 A compartment wall should be taken up to
part of a building (so that the separated parts can meet the underside of the roof covering or deck,
be assessed independently for the purpose of with fire-stopping where necessary at the wall/roof
determining the appropriate standard of fire junction to maintain the continuity of fire resistance.
resistance) should run the full height of the building The compartment wall should also be continued
in a continuous vertical plane. The two separated across any eaves cavity (see paragraph 9.22a).
parts can have different standards of fire resistance.
9.29 If a fire penetrates a roof near a compartment
wall there is a risk that it will spread over the roof
Other Compartment Walls to the adjoining compartment. To reduce this risk,
9.25 Compartment walls not described in the and subject to 9.30 below, a zone of the roof
previous two paragraphs should run the full height 1500mm wide on either side of the wall should
of the storey in which they are situated. have a covering of designation AA, AB or AC (see
Appendix A, paragraph 6) on a substrate or deck
9.26 Compartment walls in a top storey beneath
of a material of limited combustibility, as set out in
a roof should be continued through the roof space
Diagram 28a.
(see definition of compartment in Appendix E).
Note: Double skinned insulated roof sheeting
should incorporate a band of material of limited
combustibility.

Diagram 27 Compartment walls and compartment floors with reference

to relevant paragraphs in Section 9

construction of walls and floors 9.22 junction with roof 9.28-9.31

combustible material carried

over top 9.29, 9.30

opening
9.33, 9.35 junction
with external
junction
wall 9.27
with external
wall 9.27
opening
9.35

junction with
protected
shaft 9.27

protected shaft
9.36-9.43

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COMPARTMENTATION B3
9.30 In buildings not more than 15m high, of Openings in compartmentation
the purpose groups listed below, combustible
boarding used as a substrate to the roof covering, Openings in compartment walls separating
wood wool slabs, or timber tiling battens, may be buildings or occupancies
carried over the compartment wall provided that
they are fully bedded in mortar or other suitable 9.33 Any openings in a compartment wall which
material over the width of the wall (see Diagram is common to two or more buildings, or between
28b). This applies to: Dwellinghouses, buildings different occupancies in the same building, should
or compartments in Residential use (other than be limited to those for:
Institutional), Office buildings, Assembly and a. a door which is needed to provide a means of
recreation buildings. escape in case of fire and which has the same
9.31 As an alternative to 9.29 or 9.30 the fire resistance as that required for the wall (see
compartment wall may be extended up through Appendix B, Table B1) and is fitted in accordance
the roof for a height of at least 375mm above the with the provisions of Appendix B; and
top surface of the adjoining roof covering (see b. the passage of a pipe which meets the
Diagram 28c). provisions in Section 11.
Compartment construction in hospitals Doors
9.32 Compartment walls and floors in hospitals 9.34 Information on fire doors will be found in
designed on the basis of Firecode (see [Link]) should Appendix B.
be constructed of materials of limited combustibility
if they have fire resistance of 60 minutes or more
(unless the building is fitted throughout with a
Openings in other compartment walls or
suitable sprinkler system – see Firecode). in compartment floors
9.35 Openings in compartment walls (other than
those described in paragraph 9.33) or
compartment floors should be limited to those for:
a. doors which have the appropriate fire resistance
given in Appendix B, Table B1, and are fitted in
accordance with the provisions of Appendix B;
and
b. the passage of pipes, ventilation ducts, chimneys,
appliance ventilation ducts or ducts encasing
one or more flue pipes, which meet the
provisions in Section 11; and
c. refuse chutes of non-combustible construction;
and
d. atria designed in accordance with BS 5588:
Part 7; and
e. protected shafts which meet the relevant
provisions below.

Protected shafts
9.36 Any stairway or other shaft passing directly
from one compartment to another should be
enclosed in a protected shaft so as to delay or
prevent the spread of fire between compartments.
There are additional provisions in Sections 2 – 6
for protected shafts that are protected stairways,
and in Section 18 if the stairway also serves as a
firefighting stair.

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B3 COMPARTMENTATION

Diagram 28 Junction of compartment wall with roof

See paras 9.28-9.31

a. ANY BUILDING OR COMPARTMENT

Roof covering over this distance to be designated AA, AB or AC

on deck of material of limited combustibility. Roof covering and
deck could be composite structure, eg profiled steel cladding.
1500mm 1500mm Double skinned insulated roof sheeting should incorporate a band
of material of limited combustibility at least 300mm wide centred
over the wall.
If roof support members pass through the wall, fire protection
to these members for a distance of 1500mm on either side of
the wall may be needed to delay distortion at the junction
wall (see Note to para 9.22).
Resilient fire stopping to be carried up to underside of roof covering.

b. DWELLINGHOUSE AND BUILDING OR COMPARTMENT IN RESIDENTIAL

(NOT INSTITUTIONAL), OFFICE OR ASSEMBLY USE and not more than 15m high

Roof covering to be designated AA, AB or AC for at least this distance.

Boarding (used as a substrate), wood wool slabs or timber tiling battens
may be carried over the wall provided that they are fully bedded in
1500mm 1500mm mortar (or other no less suitable material) where over the wall.
Sarking felt may also be carried over the wall.
If roof support members pass through the wall, fire protection to these
members for a distance of 1500mm on either side of the wall may
be needed to delay distortion at the junction (see Note to para 9.22)

wall Fire stopping to be carried up to underside of roof covering,

boarding or slab.

c. ANY BUILDING OR COMPARTMENT

at least
at least
375mm
375mm
roof
covering
roof covering
wall

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COMPARTMENTATION B3
Diagram 29 Protected shafts
See paras 9.36-9.38

Protected shafts provide for the movement of people (eg stairs, lifts), or for passage of goods, air or
services such as pipes or cables between different compartments. The elements enclosing the shaft
(unless formed by adjacent external walls) are compartment walls and floors. The diagram shows three
common examples which illustrate the principles.

compartment wall

door door
external wall door door

Protected shaft A Protected shaft C

bounded on three sides a services duct bounded
by compartment walls on four sides by
and on fourth side by Protected shaft B compartment walls
an external wall bounded on four sides
by compartment walls

The shaft structure (including any openings) should meet the relevant provisions for:
Compartment walls see paras 9.21-9.40, external walls see sections 13-14 and Diagram 21

Uses for protected shafts Uninsulated glazed screens to

9.37 The uses of protected shafts should be protected shafts
restricted to stairs, lifts, escalators, chutes, ducts, 9.39 If the conditions given below and described
and pipes. Sanitary accommodation and washrooms in Diagram 30 are satisfied, an uninsulated glazed
may be included in protected shafts. screen may be incorporated in the enclosure to a
protected shaft between a stair and a lobby or
Construction of protected shafts corridor which is entered from the stair. The
conditions to be satisfied are:
9.38 The construction enclosing a protected shaft
(see Diagram 29) should: a. the standard of fire resistance for the stair
enclosure is not more than 60 minutes; and
a. form a complete barrier to fire between the
different compartments which the shaft b. the protected shaft is not a firefighting shaft
connects; (if it is, refer to BS 5588: Part 5 Fire precautions
in the design, construction and use of
b. have the appropriate fire resistance given in
buildings, Code of practice for firefighting
Appendix A, Table A1, except for uninsulated
stairs and lifts, clauses on construction);
glazed screens which meet the provisions of
paragraph 9.39; and c. the glazed screen:
c. satisfy the provisions about their ventilation i. has at least 30 minutes fire resistance,
and the treatment of openings in paragraphs in terms of integrity, and
9.42 et seq.
ii. meets the guidance in Appendix A,
Table A4, on the limits on areas of
uninsulated glazing;
d. the lobby or corridor is enclosed to at least
a 30 minute standard.
9.40 Where the measures in Diagram 30 to protect
the lobby or corridor, are not provided, the
enclosing walls should comply with Appendix A,
Table A1 (item 8c) and the doors with the guidance
in Appendix A, Table A4.

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B3 COMPARTMENTATION

Diagram 30 Uninsulated glazed screen Ventilation of protected shafts conveying gas

separating protected shaft from lobby 9.42 A protected shaft conveying piped flammable
gas should be adequately ventilated direct to the
or corridor outside air by ventilation openings at high and low
See paras 9.39 and 9.40 level in the shaft.
Any extension of the storey floor into the shaft
a. WITH CORRIDOR should not compromise the free movement of air
over the entire length of the shaft. Guidance on
such shafts, including sizing of the ventilation
openings, is given in BS 8313 Code of practice
protected for accommodation of building services in ducts.
shaft
corridor Openings into protected shafts
glazed 9.43 Generally an external wall of a protected
screen shaft does not need to have fire resistance.
However there are some provisions for fire resistance
of external walls of firefighting shafts in section 2
of BS 5588: Part 5: 1991, which is the relevant
guidance called up by paragraph 18.11, and of
b. WITH LOBBY
external walls to protected stairways (which may
also be protected shafts) in paragraph 6.24.
Openings in other parts of the enclosure to a
protected shaft should be limited as follows.
protected
shaft a. Where part of the enclosure to a protected
lobby shaft is a wall common to two or more
buildings, only the following openings should
glazed
screen
be made in that wall:
i. a door which is needed to provide a
means of escape in case of fire and
which has the same fire resistance as
that required for the wall (see Appendix B,
Key Table B1) and is fitted in accordance with
fire resistance to protected shaft the provisions of Appendix B; and
of not more than 60 minutes
ii. the passage of a pipe which meets the
fire resistance of construction to be provisions in Section 11.
at least 30 minutes (including doors)
b. Other parts of the enclosure (other than an
fire resistance of glazing to be external wall) should only have openings for:
at least 30 minutes (including doors)
i. doors which have the appropriate fire
resistance given in Appendix B, Table B1,
and are fitted in accordance with the
provisions of Appendix B; and
Pipes for oil or gas, and ventilating ducts,
in protected shafts ii. the passage of pipes which meet the
provisions in Section 11; and
9.41 If a protected shaft contains a stair and/or
a lift, it should not also contain a pipe conveying iii. inlets to, outlets from and openings for a
oil (other than in the mechanism of a hydraulic lift) ventilation duct, (if the shaft contains or
or contain a ventilating duct (other than a duct serves as a ventilating duct) which meet
provided for the purposes for pressurizing the the provisions in Section 11; and
stairway to keep it smoke free or a duct provided iv. the passage of lift cables into a lift
solely for ventilating the stairway). machine room (if the shaft contains a lift).
Any pipe carrying natural gas or LPG in such a If the machine room is at the bottom of
shaft should be of screwed steel or of all welded the shaft, the openings should be as small
steel construction, installed in accordance with as practicable.
the Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996, SI 1996
No 825, and the Gas Safety (Installation and use)
Regulations 1998, SI 1998 No 2451.
Note: A pipe is not considered to be contained
within a protected shaft, if the pipe is completely
separated from that protected shaft by fire-
resisting construction.

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CONCEALED SPACES B3
Section 10
CONCEALED SPACES (CAVITIES) Note on cavities in rain screen cladding and
the like: Cavities within an external wall are
referred to in this Section, including the drained
Introduction and ventilated cavities behind the outer cladding
in “rainscreen” external wall construction. There
10.1 Concealed spaces or cavities in the are also provisions in paragraphs 13.6 and 13.7
construction of a building provide a ready route about the construction of external walls which
for smoke and flame spread. This is particularly have a bearing on overcladding and rainscreen
so in the case of voids above other spaces in a construction.
building, eg above a suspended ceiling or in a
roof space. As any spread is concealed, it presents
a greater danger than would a more obvious Provision of cavity barriers
weakness in the fabric of the building. Provisions
are made to restrict this by interrupting cavities 10.2 Provisions for cavity barriers are set out
which could form a pathway around a barrier to in Table 13 against specified locations and
fire, sub-dividing extensive cavities, and by purpose groups.
closing the edges of openings. 10.3 Table 14 lays down maximum dimensions
Note: Cavity barriers are not appropriate for use for undivided concealed spaces.
above compartment walls (see paragraph 10.5). 10.4 Diagram 31 illustrates the need for cavity
See also ‘Limitation on requirements’ on page 5 barriers at the intersection of fire-resisting
which explains the purpose of provisions made in construction and elements containing a
connection with Building Regulations. concealed space.

Diagram 31 Interrupting concealed spaces (cavities)

See para 10.4 and Table 13

wall with cavity

compartment floor floor

cavity
barrier

suspended ceiling cavity barrier

a. SECTION
fire-resisting alternatively if it is a
wall (but not a compartment wall carry
compartment wall) wall up to underside of floor
wall with cavity b. SECTION

cavity barrier cavity barrier

wall with cavity

fire-resisting wall

fire-resisting door

c. PLAN

d. PLAN

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B3 CONCEALED SPACES

Table 13 Provision of cavity barriers

Purpose group to which the provision applies (1)
1b & c 1a 2 3-7
Dwelling Flat or Other Office, Shop &
Cavity barriers to be provided: houses maisonette residential Commercial,
and Assembly &
Institutional Recreation, Industrial,
Storage & Other
non-residential
1. At the junction between an external cavity wall and a
compartment wall that separates buildings; and at the
top of such an external cavity wall. (2) ● ● ● ●

2. Above the enclosures to a protected stairway in a house

with a floor more than 4.5m above ground level
(see Diagram 33a). (3) ● ● ● ●

3. At the junction between an external cavity wall and every

compartment floor and compartment wall. (2) ● ● ● ●

4. At the junction between a cavity wall and every

compartment floor, compartment wall, or other wall or
door assembly which forms a fire-resisting barrier. (2) ● ● ● ●

5. In a protected escape route, above and below any

fire-resisting construction which is not carried full storey
height, or (in the case of a top storey) to the underside
of the roof covering. (3) ● ● ● ●

6. Where the corridor should be sub-divided to prevent

fire or smoke affecting two alternative escape routes
simultaneously (see paragraph 4.23 & Diagram 34a),
above any such corridor enclosures which are not
carried full storey height, or (in the case of the top storey)
to the underside of the roof covering. (4) ● ● ● ●

7. Above any bedroom partitions which are not carried full

storey height, or (in the case of the top storey) to the
underside of the roof covering. (3) ● ● ● ●

8. To sub-divide any cavity (including any roof space but

excluding any underfloor service void) so that the
distance between cavity barriers does not exceed
the dimensions given in Table 14. ● ● ● ●

9. Within the void behind the external face of rainscreen

cladding at every floor level, and on the line of
compartment walls abutting the external wall, of
buildings which have a floor 18m or more
above ground level. ● ● ● ●

10. At the edges of cavities (including around openings). ● ● ● ●

Key: ● provision applies

Key: ● provision does not apply
Notes:
1. The classification of purpose groups is set out in Appendix D, Table D1.
2. The provisions in items 1, 3 and 4 do not apply where the cavity wall complies with Diagram 32.
3. The provisions in items 2, 5 and 7 do not apply where the cavity is enclosed on the lower side by a fire-resisting ceiling (as shown
in Diagram 35) which extends throughout the building, compartment or separated part.
4. The provision of item 6 does not apply where the storey is sub-divided by fire-resisting construction carried full storey height and
passing through the line of sub-division of the corridor (see Diagram 34b), or where the cavity is enclosed on the lower side as
described in Note 3.

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CONCEALED SPACES B3
Table 14 Maximum dimensions of cavities in non-domestic buildings
(Purpose Groups 2-7)
Location of cavity Class of surface exposed in cavity Maximum dimension in
(excluding the surface of any pipe, cable any direction (m)
or conduit, or any insulation to any pipe)
Between roof and a ceiling Any 20
Any other cavity Class 0 or Class 1 20
Not Class 0 or Class 1 10
Note: Exceptions to these provisions are given in paragraphs 10.11-10.13.

Diagram 32 Cavity walls excluded Diagram 33 Alternative arrangements

from provisions for cavity barriers in roof space over protected stairway
See Table 13, items 1, 3 & 4 in a house with a floor more than 4.5m
above ground level
SECTION THROUGH CAVITY WALL
See Table 13, item 2

close cavity at cavity barrier(s)

top of wall in roof space
(unless cavity
is totally filled
with insulation) roof space

stairway

close cavity
opening around fire-resisting
opening enclosure
to stairway

a. WITH CAVITY BARRIERS

two leaves of
brick or concrete
each at least fire-resisting ceiling
75mm thick to meet Diagram 35

roof space
Note: Combustible material should not be placed
in or exposed to the cavity, except for:
stairway
a timber lintols, window or door frames, or the end
of timber joists;
b pipe, conduit or cable;
c DPC, flashing, cavity closer or wall tie; fire-resisting
d thermal insulating material; enclosure
e a domestic meter cupboard, provided that: to stairway
– there are no more than two cupboards per dwelling,
– the opening in the outer wall leaf is not more than b. WITH FIRE-RESISTING CEILING
800 x 500mm for each cupboard, and
– the inner leaf is not penetrated except by a sleeve
not more than 80 x 80mm, which is fire-stopped.

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B3 CONCEALED SPACES

Diagram 34 Corridor enclosure alternatives

See Table 13, item 6 & Note 4, and paragraph 4.23

a. SECTION TO SHOW USE OF

CAVITY BARRIERS ABOVE THE
CORRIDOR ENCLOSURE

stair

corridor cavity barriers

accommodation
floor

ceiling void suspended

cavity barrier above corridor (cavity) ceiling
on line of subdivision

fire-resisting subdivision

The subdivision is carried full storey height

and includes subdivision of the corridor.
A cavity barrier is used in the corridor
stair ceiling void, over the corridor subdivision.

b. PLAN SHOWING SUBDIVISION

OF THE STOREY BY FIRE-RESISTING
CONSTRUCTION

10.5 As compartment walls should be carried up 10.7 A cavity barrier may be formed by any
full storey height to a compartment floor or to the construction provided for another purpose if it
roof as appropriate, see paragraphs 9.22-9.25, meets the provisions for cavity barriers.
it is not appropriate to complete a line of
10.8 Cavity barriers should be tightly fitted to rigid
compartmentation by fitting cavity barriers above
construction and mechanically fixed in position
them. Therefore it is important to continue the
wherever possible. Where this is not possible
compartment wall through the cavity to maintain
(for example, in the case of a junction with slates,
the standard of fire resistance.
tiles, corrugated sheeting or similar materials) the
junction should be fire-stopped. Provisions for
Construction and fixings for fire-stopping are set out in Section 11.
cavity barriers 10.9 Cavity barriers should also be fixed so that their
performance is unlikely to be made ineffective by:
10.6 Every cavity barrier should be constructed
a. movement of the building due to subsidence,
to provide at least 30 minutes fire resistance (see
shrinkage or temperature change, and movement
Appendix A, Table A1, item 16). However, cavity
of the external envelope due to wind; and
barriers in a stud wall or partition may be formed of:
b. collapse in a fire of any services penetrating
a. steel at least 0.5mm thick; or
them; and
b. timber at least 38mm thick; or
c. failure in a fire of their fixings (but see note
c. polythene sleeved mineral wool, or mineral below); and
wool slab, in either case under compression
d. failure in a fire of any material or construction
when installed in the cavity; or
which they abut. (For example, if a suspended
d. calcium silicate, cement based or gypsum ceiling is continued over the top of a fire-
based boards at least 12.0mm thick. resisting wall or partition, and direct connection
is made between the ceiling and the cavity
Note: Cavity barriers provided around openings
barrier above the line of the wall or partition,
(see Table 13, item 10) may be formed by the
premature failure of the cavity barrier can
window or door frame.

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CONCEALED SPACES B3
occur when the ceiling collapses. However, 10.13 Where the concealed space is over an
this does not arise if the ceiling is designed to undivided area which exceeds 40m (this may be
provide fire protection of 30 minutes or more.) in both directions on plan) there is no limit to the
size of the cavity if:
Note: Where cavity barriers are provided in roof
spaces, the roof members to which they are fitted a. the room and the cavity together are
are not expected to have any fire resistance. compartmented from the rest of the building;
b. an automatic fire detection and alarm system
Maximum dimensions of meeting the relevant recommendations of BS
concealed spaces 5839: Part 1 Fire detection and alarm systems
for buildings, Code of practice for system
10.10 With the exceptions given in paragraphs design, installation and servicing is fitted in the
10.11 to 10.13, extensive concealed spaces building (however, detectors are not required
should be sub-divided to comply with the in the cavity);
dimensions in Table 14. c. if the cavity is used as a plenum, the
10.11 The provisions in Table 14 do not apply recommendations about recirculating air
to any cavity described below: distribution systems in BS 5588: Part 9 Fire
precautions in the design, construction and
a. in a wall which should be fire-resisting only use of buildings, Code of practice for ventilation
because it is loadbearing; and air conditioning ductwork are followed;
b. in a masonry or concrete external cavity wall d. the surface of the ceiling exposed in the cavity
shown in Diagram 32; is Class 0 and the supports and fixings in the
c. in any floor or roof cavity above a cavity are of non-combustible construction;
fire-resisting ceiling, as shown in Diagram 35 e. the flame spread rating of any pipe insulation
and which extends throughout the building or system is Class 1;
compartment, subject to a 30m limit on the
extent of the cavity; f. any electrical wiring in the void is laid in metal
trays, or in metal conduit; and
d. below a floor next to the ground or oversite
concrete, if the cavity is less than 1000mm in g. any other materials in the cavity are of limited
height or if the cavity is not normally accessible combustibility.
by persons, unless there are openings in the
floor such that it is possible for combustibles Openings in cavity barriers
to accumulate in the cavity (in which case
cavity barriers should be provided, and access 10.14 Any openings in a cavity barrier (except
should be provided to the cavity for cleaning); barriers identified in Table 13, item 7) should be
e. within an underfloor service void; limited to those for:
f. formed behind the external skin in rain screen a. doors which have at least 30 minutes fire
external wall construction, or by overcladding resistance (see Appendix B, Table B1, item
an existing masonry (or concrete) external 8(a)) and are fitted in accordance with the
wall, or an existing concrete roof, provided provisions of Appendix B;
that the cavity does not contain combustible b. the passage of pipes which meet the
insulation, and the provisions of Table 13 item provisions in Section 11;
9 are observed; and
c. the passage of cables or conduits containing
g. between double-skinned corrugated or one or more cables;
profiled insulated roof sheeting, if the sheeting
is a material of limited combustibility and both d. openings fitted with a suitably mounted
surfaces of the insulating layer have a surface automatic fire damper; and
spread of flame of at least Class 0 or 1 (see e. ducts which (unless they are fire-resisting)
Appendix A) and make contact with the inner are fitted with a suitably mounted automatic
and outer skins of cladding (see Diagram 36). fire damper where they pass through the
10.12 Where any room under a ceiling cavity cavity barrier.
exceeds the dimensions given in Table 14, cavity
barriers need only be provided on the line of the
enclosing walls/partitions of that room, subject to:
a. the cavity barriers being no more than 40m
apart; and
b. the surfaces exposed in the cavity being
Class 0 or Class 1.

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B3 CONCEALED SPACES

Diagram 35 Fire-resisting ceiling Diagram 36 Provisions for cavity

below concealed space barriers in double-skinned insulated
See para 10.11(c) and Table 13 Note 3
roof sheeting
See para 10.11(g)

a. ACCEPTABLE WITHOUT CAVITY BARRIERS

floor or roof cavity

ceiling surface facing cavity – Class 1 The insulation should make contact with both skins
of sheeting. See also Diagram 28a regarding the need
for a fire break where such roofs pass over the top
of a compartment wall.
soffit of ceiling – Class 0

Notes:
The ceiling should:
a have at least 30 minutes fire resistance;
b be imperforate, except for an opening described
in paragraph 10.14;
c extend throughout the building or compartment; and
d not be easily demountable b. CAVITY BARRIERS NECESSARY

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PROTECTION OF OPENINGS AND FIRESTOPPING B3

Section 11
PROTECTION OF OPENINGS AND Openings for pipes
FIRE STOPPING
11.5 Pipes which pass through a compartment
wall or compartment floor (unless the pipe is in a
Introduction protected shaft), or through a cavity barrier, should
meet the appropriate provisions in alternatives A,
11.1 Sections 9 and 10 make provisions for fire B or C below.
separating elements, and set out the
circumstances in which there may be openings in Alternative A: Proprietary seals
them. This section deals with the protection of (any pipe diameter)
openings in such elements.
11.6 Provide a proprietary sealing system which
11.2 If a fire separating element is to be effective, has been shown by test to maintain the fire
then every joint, or imperfection of fit, or opening resistance of the wall, floor or cavity barrier.
to allow services to pass through the element,
should be adequately protected by sealing or fire- Alternative B: Pipes with a restricted
stopping so that the fire resistance of the element diameter
is not impaired.
11.7 Where a proprietary sealing system is not
11.3 The measures in this section are intended to used, fire-stopping may be used around the pipe,
delay the passage of fire. They generally have the keeping the opening as small as possible. The
additional benefit of retarding smoke spread, but nominal internal diameter of the pipe should not
the test specified in Appendix A for integrity does be more than the relevant dimension given in
not stipulate criteria for the passage of smoke as Table 15.
such.
11.4 Detailed guidance on door openings and fire
doors is given in Appendix B.

Table 15 Maximum nominal internal diameter of pipes passing through a

compartment wall/floor (see para 11.5 et seq)
Pipe material and maximum nominal
internal diameter (mm)
Situation (a) (b) (c)
Non- Lead, aluminium, Any
combustible aluminium alloy, other
material (1) uPVC (2), fibre material
cement
1. Structure (but not a wall separating buildings) enclosing 160 110 40
a protected shaft which is not a stairway or a lift shaft
2. Wall separating dwelling houses, or compartment wall 160 160 (stack pipe) (3) 40
or compartment floor between flats 110 (branch pipe) (3)
3. Any other situation 160 40 40
Notes:
1. Any non-combustible material (such as cast iron, copper or steel) which if exposed to a temperature of 800°C, will not soften or
fracture to the extent that flame or hot gas will pass through the wall of the pipe.
2. uPVC pipes complying with BS 4514 and uPVC pipes complying with BS 5255.
3. These diameters are only in relation to pipes forming part of an above-ground drainage system and enclosed as shown in Diagram 38.
In other cases the maximum diameters against situation 3 apply.

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B3 PROTECTION OF OPENINGS AND FIRESTOPPING

11.8 The diameters given in Table 15 for pipes of Fire-stopping
specification (b) used in situation (2) assume that
the pipes are part of an above-ground drainage 11.12 In addition to any other provisions in this
system and are enclosed as shown in Diagram document for fire-stopping:
38. If they are not, the smaller diameter given in
situation (3) should be used. a. joints between fire separating elements should
be fire-stopped; and
Alternative C: Sleeving b. all openings for pipes, ducts, conduits or
11.9 A pipe of lead, aluminium, aluminium alloy, cables to pass through any part of a fire
fibre-cement or uPVC, with a maximum nominal separating element should be:
internal diameter of 160mm, may be used with a i. kept as few in number as possible, and
sleeving of non-combustible pipe as shown in
Diagram 37. The specification for non-combustible ii. kept as small as practicable, and
and uPVC pipes is given in the notes to Table 15. iii. fire-stopped (which in the case of a pipe
or duct, should allow thermal movement).
Diagram 37 Pipes penetrating 11.13 To prevent displacement, materials used for
structure fire-stopping should be reinforced with (or
supported by) materials of limited combustibility
See para 11.9, alternative method C in the following circumstances:
structure a. in all cases where the unsupported span is
greater than 100mm; and
not less than not less than
b. in any other case where non-rigid materials
1000mm 1000mm
are used (unless they have been shown to be
satisfactory by test).
11.14 Proprietary fire-stopping and sealing
pipe specification (b) sleeve (or pipe) systems, (including those designed for service
of specification (a) penetrations) which have been shown by test to
to be in contact maintain the fire resistance of the wall or other
with pipe element, are available and may be used.
Other fire-stopping materials include:
Notes:
1 Make the opening in the structure as small as possible • cement mortar,
and provide fire-stopping between pipe and structure.
2 See Table 15 for materials specification. • gypsum based plaster,
• cement or gypsum based vermiculite/perlite mixes,
• glass fibre, crushed rock, blast furnace slag or
ceramic based products (with or without resin
Ventilating ducts binders), and
11.10 BS 5588: Part 9 Fire precautions in the • intumescent mastics.
design, construction and use of buildings, Code These may be used in situations appropriate to
of practice for ventilation and air conditioning the particular material. Not all of them will be
ductwork sets out alternative ways in which the suitable in every situation.
integrity of compartments may be maintained
where ventilation and air conditioning ducts
penetrate fire separating elements. The alternatives
are equally acceptable, and the recommendations
of that code should be followed where air handling
ducts pass from one compartment to another.

Flues, etc.
11.11 If a flue, or duct containing flues or appliance
ventilation duct(s), passes through a compartment
wall or compartment floor, or is built into a
compartment wall, each wall of the flue or duct
should have a fire resistance of at least half that of
the wall or floor in order to prevent the by-passing
of the compartmentation (see Diagram 39).

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PROTECTION OF OPENINGS AND FIRESTOPPING B3

Diagram 38 Enclosure for drainage or water supply pipes
See para 11.8 and Table 15

a. HOUSE WITH ANY NUMBER OF STOREYS b. OTHER BUILDINGS

vent pipe
roof space casing

compartment floor enclosure

provide casing if wall carried through to
separating houses is seal enclosure –
penetrated by branch provide firestopping
pipe at this storey intermediate between stack pipe
floor and floor

intermediate floor
floor carried through enclosure enclosure
wall carried through to
to seal enclosure – separating seal enclosure –
provide firestopping houses provide firestopping
between stack pipe
between stack pipe
and floor casing and floor
stack pipe
SECTION compartment floor compartment wall
stack pipe
Notes:
1 The enclosure should:
a be bounded by a compartment wall or floor, an outside wall, an intermediate floor, or a casing (see specification at 2 below), and
b have internal surfaces (except framing members) of Class 0, and
c not have an access panel which opens into a circulation space or bedroom, and
d be used only for drainage, or water supply, or vent pipes for a drainage system
2 The casing should:
a be imperforate except for an opening for a pipe or an access panel, and
b not be of sheet metal, and
c have (including any access panel) not less than 30 minutes fire resistance
3 The opening for a pipe, either in the structure or the casing, should be as small as possible and fire-stopped around the pipe.

Diagram 39 Flues penetrating compartment walls or floors

(note that there is guidance in Approved Document J concerning hearths adjacent to compartment walls)
See para 11.11

a. FLUE PASSING THROUGH COMPARTMENT b. FLUE BUILT INTO COMPARTMENT WALL

WALL OR FLOOR

flue
compartment wall
compartment
wall or floor

SECTION flue wall PLAN

Flue walls should have a fire resistance of at least one In each case flue walls should have a fire resistance at
half of that required for the compartment wall or floor, least one half of that required for the compartment wall
and be of non-combustible construction. and be of non-combustible construction.

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B3 SPECIAL PROVISIONS
Section 12
SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR CAR Open sided car parks
PARKS AND SHOPPING 12.4 If the building, or separated part containing
COMPLEXES the car park, complies with the following provisions
(in addition to those in paragraph 12.3) it may
be regarded as an open sided car park for the
Introduction purposes of fire resistance assessment in
Appendix A, Table A2. The provisions are that:
12.1 This section describes additional a. there should not be any basement storeys;
considerations which apply to the design and
construction of car parks and shopping complexes. b. each storey should be naturally ventilated by
permanent openings at each car parking level,
having an aggregate vent area not less than
Car Parks 1/20th of the floor area at that level, of which
at least half (1/40th) should be equally
General principles provided between two opposing walls;
12.2 Buildings or parts of buildings used as c. if the building is also used for any other
parking for cars and other light vehicles are unlike purpose, the part forming the car park is a
other buildings in certain respects which merit separated part.
some departures from the usual measures to
restrict fire spread within buildings. Car parks which are not open sided
a. The fire load is well defined and not 12.5 Where car parks do not have the standard of
particularly high. ventilation set out in 12.4(b), they are not regarded
b. Where the car park is well ventilated, there is as open-sided and a different standard of fire
a low probability of fire spread from one storey resistance is necessary (the relevant provisions
to another. Ventilation is the important factor, are given in Appendix A, Table A2).
and as heat and smoke cannot be dissipated Such car parks still require some ventilation,
so readily from a car park that is not open-sided which may be by natural or mechanical means,
fewer concessions are made. The guidance as described in 12.6 or 12.7 below. The provisions
in paragraphs 12.4 to 12.7 is concerned with of 12.3 apply to all car park buildings, whatever
three ventilation methods: open sided (high standard of ventilation is provided.
level of natural ventilation), natural ventilation
and mechanical ventilation. Natural ventilation
Note: Because of the above, car parks are not 12.6 Where car parks that are not open-sided
normally expected to be fitted with sprinklers. are provided with some, more limited, natural
ventilation, each storey should be ventilated by
Provisions common to all car park buildings permanent openings at each car parking level,
12.3 The relevant provisions of the guidance on having an aggregate vent area not less than
requirements B1 and B5 will apply, but in addition 1/40th of the floor area at that level, of which at
all materials used in the construction of the least half (1/80th) should be equally provided
building, compartment or separated part should between two opposing walls. Smoke vents at
be non-combustible, except for: ceiling level may be used as an alternative to the
provision of permanent openings in the walls.
a. any surface finish applied: They should have an aggregate area of permanent
i. to a floor or roof of the car park, or opening totalling not less than 1/40th of the floor
area and be arranged to provide a through
ii. within any adjoining building, compartment draught. (See Approved Document F Ventilation
or separated part to the structure for additional guidance on normal ventilation of
enclosing the car park, if the finish meets car parks.)
all relevant aspects of the guidance on
requirements B2 and B4;
b. any fire door;
c. any attendant’s kiosk not exceeding 15m2 in
area; and
d. any shop mobility facility.

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SPECIAL PROVISIONS B3
Mechanical ventilation Shopping Complexes
12.7 In most basement car parks, and in
enclosed car parks, it may not be possible to 12.8 Whilst the provisions in this document about
obtain the minimum standard of natural ventilation shops should generally be capable of application
openings set out in paragraph 12.6 above. In such in cases where a shop is contained in a single
cases a system of mechanical ventilation should separate building, the provisions may not be
be provided as follows: appropriate where a shop forms part of a complex.
These may include covered malls providing access
a. the system should be independent of any to a number of shops and common servicing
other ventilating system (other than any areas. In particular the provisions about maximum
system providing normal ventilation to the compartment size may be difficult to meet bearing
car park) and be designed to operate at 10 in mind that it would generally not be practical to
air changes per hour in a fire condition. (See compartment a shop from a mall serving it. To a
Approved Document F Ventilation for guidance lesser extent the provisions about fire resistance,
on normal ventilation of car parks); walls separating shop units, surfaces and boundary
b. the system should be designed to run in two distances may pose problems.
parts, each part capable of extracting 50% 12.9 To ensure a satisfactory standard of fire
of the rates set out in (a) above, and designed safety in shopping complexes, alternative
so that each part may operate singly or measures and additional compensatory features
simultaneously; to those set out in this document are appropriate.
c. each part of the system should have an Such features are set out in sections 5 and 6 of
independent power supply which would operate BS 5588: Part 10: 1991 Fire precautions in the
in the event of failure of the main supply; design, construction and use of buildings, Code
of practice for shopping complexes, and the
d. extract points should be arranged so that relevant recommendations of those sections
50% of the outlets are at high level, and 50% should be followed.
at low level: and
e. the fans should be rated to run at 300°C for a
minimum of 60 mins, and the ductwork and
fixings should be constructed of materials
having a melting point not less than 800°C.
For further information on equipment for removing
hot smoke refer to BS 7346: Part 2 Components
for smoke and heat control systems, Specification
for powered smoke and heat exhaust ventilators.
An alternative method of providing smoke
ventilation from enclosed car parks is given in the
BRE Report Design methodologies for smoke and
heat exhaust ventilation (BR 368, 1999).

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B4 EXTERNAL FIRE SPREAD

The Requirement
This Approved Document which takes effect on
1 July 2000, deals with the following Requirement
from Part B of Schedule 1 to the Building
Regulations 1991.

Requirement Limits on application

External fire spread

B4.-(1) The external walls of the building shall adequately
resist the spread of fire over the walls and from one building
to another, having regard to the height, use and position of
the building.
(2) The roof of the building shall adequately resist the spread
of fire over the roof and from one building to another, having
regard to the use and position of the building.

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INTRODUCTION B4
Guidance
Performance
In the Secretary of State’s view the requirements
of B4 will be met:
a. if the external walls are constructed so that
the risk of ignition from an external source,
and the spread of fire over their surfaces, is
restricted by making provision for them to
have low rates of heat release;
b. if the amount of unprotected area in the side
of the building is restricted so as to limit the
amount of thermal radiation that can pass
throught the wall, taking the distance between
the wall and the boundary into account;
c. if the roof is constructed so that the risk of
spread of flame and/or fire penetration from
an external fire source is restricted.
In each case so as to limit the risk of a fire
spreading from the building to a building beyond
the boundary, or vice versa.
The extent to which this is necessary is
dependent on the use of the building, its distance
from the boundary and, in some cases, its height.

Introduction
External walls
B4.i The construction of external walls and the
separation between buildings to prevent external
fire spread are closely related.
The chances of fire spreading across an open
space between buildings, and the consequences
if it does, depend on:
a. the size and intensity of the fire in the
building concerned;
b. the distance between the buildings;
c. the fire protection given by their facing
sides; and
d. the risk presented to people in the
other building(s).
[Link] Provisions are made in Section 13 for the
fire resistance of external walls and to limit the
susceptibility of the external surface of walls to
ignition and to fire spread.
[Link] Provisions are made in Section 14 to limit
the extent of openings and other unprotected
areas in external walls in order to reduce the risk
of fire spread by radiation.

Roofs
[Link] Provisions are made in Section 15 for
reducing the risk of fire spread between roofs
and over the surfaces of roofs.

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B4 EXTERNAL WALLS
Section 13
CONSTRUCTION OF Portal frames
EXTERNAL WALLS
13.4 Portal frames are often used in single storey
industrial and commercial buildings where there
Introduction may be no need for fire resistance of the structure
(Requirement B3). However where a portal framed
13.1 Provisions are made in this section for the building is near a relevant boundary, the external
external walls of the building to have sufficient wall near the boundary may need fire resistance
fire resistance to prevent fire spread across the to restrict the spread of fire between buildings.
relevant boundary. The provisions are closely
It is generally accepted that a portal frame acts
linked with those for space separation in Section
as a single structural element because of the
14 (following) which sets out limits on the amount
moment-resisting connections used, especially
of unprotected area of wall. As the limits depend
at the column/rafter joints. Thus in cases where
on the distance of the wall from the relevant
the external wall of the building cannot be wholly
boundary, it is possible for some or all of the walls
unprotected, the rafter members of the frame,
to have no fire resistance, except for any parts
as well as the column members, may need to
which are loadbearing (see paragraph [Link]).
be fire protected.
External walls are elements of structure and the
Following an investigation of the behaviour of steel
relevant period of fire resistance (specified in
portal frames in fire, it is considered technically and
Appendix A) depends on the use, height and size of
economically feasible to design the foundation and
the building concerned. If the wall is 1000mm or
its connection to the portal frame so that it would
more from the relevant boundary, a reduced standard
transmit the overturning moment caused by the
of fire resistance is accepted in most cases and
collapse, in a fire, of unprotected rafters, purlins
the wall only needs fire resistance from the inside.
and some roof cladding while allowing the external
13.2 Provisions are also made to restrict the wall to continue to perform its structural function.
combustibility of external walls of buildings that The design method for this is set out in Fire and
are less than 1000mm from the relevant boundary steel construction: The behaviour of steel portal
and, irrespective of boundary distance, the external frames in boundary conditions, 1990 (2nd edition),
walls of high buildings and those of the Assembly which is available from the Steel Construction
and Recreation Purpose Group. This is in order to Institute, Silwood Park, Ascot, Berks SL5 7QN.
reduce the surface’s susceptibility to ignition from This publication offers guidance on many aspects
an external source, and to reduce the danger from of portal frames, including multi-storey types.
fire spread up the external face of the building.
Notes:
In the guidance to Requirement B3, provisions
1. The recommendations in the SCI publication
are made in Section 8 for internal and external
for designing the foundation to resist overturning
loadbearing walls to maintain their loadbearing
need not be followed if the building is fitted
function in the event of fire.
with a sprinkler system meeting the relevant
recommendations of BS 5306: Part 2 Fire
Fire resistance standard extinguishing installations and equipment on
premises, Specification for sprinkler systems,
13.3 The external walls of the building should have ie the relevant occupancy rating together with
the appropriate fire resistance given in Appendix A, the additional requirements for life safety.
Table A1, unless they form an unprotected area 2. Normally, portal frames of reinforced concrete
under the provisions of Section 14. can support external walls requiring a similar
degree of fire resistance without specific
provision at the base to resist overturning.
3. Existing buildings may have been designed to
the following guidance which is also acceptable:
a. the column members are fixed rigidly to a
base of sufficient size and depth to resist
overturning;
b. there is brick, block or concrete protection
to the columns up to a protected ring
beam providing lateral support; and
c. there is some form of roof venting to give
early heat release. (The roof venting could
be, for example, pvc rooflights covering
some 10 per cent of the floor area and
evenly spaced over the floor area.)

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EXTERNAL WALLS B4
External surfaces External wall construction
13.5 The external surfaces of walls should meet 13.7 The external envelope of a building should not
the provisions in Diagram 40. However, the total provide a medium for fire spread if it is likely to be
amount of combustible material may be limited a risk to health or safety. The use of combustible
in practice by the provisions for space separation materials for cladding framework, or of combustible
in Section 14 (see paragraph 14.7 et seq). Where thermal insulation as an overcladding or in
a mixed use building includes Assembly and ventilated cavities, may present such a risk in tall
Recreation Purpose Group accommodation, buildings, even though the provisions for external
the external surfaces of walls should meet the surfaces in Diagram 40 may have been satisfied.
provisions in Diagram 40c.
In a building with a storey 18m or more above
Note: One alternative to meeting the provisions in ground level, insulation material used in ventilated
Diagram 40 could be BRE Fire Note 9 Assessing cavities in the external wall construction should
the fire performance of external cladding systems: be of limited combustibility (see Appendix A). This
a test method (BRE, 1999). restriction does not apply to masonry cavity wall
construction which complies with Diagram 32 in
13.6 In the case of the outer cladding of a wall
Section 10.
of ‘rainscreen’ construction (with a drained and
ventilated cavity), the surface of the outer cladding Advice on the use of thermal insulation material
which faces the cavity should also meet the is given in the BRE Report Fire performance of
provisions of Diagram 40. external thermal insulation for walls of multi-storey
buildings (BR 135, 1988).

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B4 EXTERNAL WALLS

Diagram 40 Provisions for external surfaces of walls

See paras 13.5 and 13.6

b. ANY BUILDING c. ASSEMBLY OR RECREATION BUILDING

a. ANY BUILDING OTHER THAN c. OF MORE THAN ONE STOREY
(see Table D1, Appendix D)

up to 10m
above a roof
building or any part
height of the building
less than up to to which the
18m 10m public have
above access
ground

less than 1000mm

1000mm 1000mm or more
or more
1000mm
or more

KEY TO EXTERNAL
WALL SURFACE
any dimension CLASSIFICATION
over 18m
relevant boundary
building
height
18m or
more up to 18m no provision in respect of
above ground the boundaries indicated

class 0

less than
1000mm 1000mm
less than or more index (I) not more than 20.
1000mm Timber cladding at least
1000mm
or more 9mm thick is also
acceptable (the index I
relates to tests specified
d. ANY BUILDING e. ANY BUILDING in BS 476: Part 6)

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SPACE SEPARATION B4
Section 14
SPACE SEPARATION Diagram 41 Relevant boundary
See paras 14.4 and 14.5
Introduction
This diagram sets out the rules that
14.1 The provisions in this Section are based apply in respect of a boundary for it to
on a number of assumptions, and whilst some be considered as a relevant boundary
of these may differ from the circumstances of a
For a boundary to be relevant it should:
particular case, together they enable a reasonable a coincide with, or
standard of space separation to be specified. The b be parallel to, or
provisions limit the extent of unprotected areas c be at an angle of not more than
in the sides of a building (such as openings and 80° to the side of the building
areas with a combustible surface) which will not
give adequate protection against the external
spread of fire from one building to another. this boundary is at less than 80°
to side C and is therefore
A roof is not subject to the provisions in this
relevant to side C
Section unless it is pitched at an angle greater
than 70° to the horizontal (see definition for
‘external wall’ in Appendix E). Similarly, vertical
parts of a pitched roof such as dormer windows
(which taken in isolation might be regarded as C this boundary
a wall), would not need to meet the following is parallel to
provisions unless the slope of the roof exceeds 70°. and therefore
It is a matter of judgement whether a continuous B building D
relevant to
run of dormer windows occupying most of a side D
steeply pitched roof should be treated as a wall
rather than a roof.
A
14.2 The assumptions are:
a. that the size of a fire will depend on the
this boundary coincides
compartmentation of the building, so that
with and is therefore
a fire may involve a complete compartment, relevant to side B
but will not spread to other compartments;
b. that the intensity of the fire is related to the this boundary is
use of the building (ie purpose group), but that parallel to side A
it can be moderated by a sprinkler system;
c. that Residential, and Assembly and Recreation,
Purpose Groups represent a greater life risk
than other uses; but the relevant boundary
may be the centre line of a
d. that apart from Residential, and Assembly and road, railway, canal or river
Recreation Purpose Groups, the spread of fire
between buildings on the same site represents
a low risk to life and can be discounted;
e. that there is a building on the far side of the
boundary that has a similar elevation to the
one in question, and that it is at the same
distance from the common boundary; and
f. that the amount of radiation that passes
through any part of the external wall that
has fire resistance may be discounted.
14.3 Where a reduced separation distance is
desired (or an increased amount of unprotected
area) it may be advantageous to construct
compartments of a smaller size.

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B4 SPACE SEPARATION

Boundaries Relevant boundaries

14.5 The boundary which a wall faces, whether
14.4 The use of the distance to a boundary, it is the actual boundary of the site or a notional
rather than to another building, in measuring boundary, is called the relevant boundary (see
the separation distance, makes it possible to Diagrams 41 and 42).
calculate the allowable proportion of unprotected
areas, regardless of whether there is a building Notional boundaries
on an adjoining site, and regardless of the site of
that building, and the extent of any unprotected 14.6 Generally separation distance between
areas that it might have. buildings on the same site is discounted. In some
circumstances the distances to other buildings on
A wall is treated as facing a boundary if it makes the same site need to be considered. This is done
an angle with it of 80° or less (see Diagram 41). by assuming that there is a boundary between
Usually only the distance to the actual boundary those buildings. This assumed boundary is called
of the site needs to be considered. But in some a notional boundary. A notional boundary is
circumstances, when the site boundary adjoins a assumed to exist where either or both of the
space where further development is unlikely, such buildings concerned are in the Residential or
as a road, then part of the adjoining space may Assembly and Recreation Purpose Groups. The
be included as falling within the relevant boundary appropriate rules are given in Diagram 42.
for the purposes of this Section. The meaning of
the term boundary is explained in Diagram 41.

Diagram 42 Notional boundary

See para 14.6

This diagram sets out the rules that apply where there is a building of the Residential or Assembly and Recreation
Purpose Groups on the same site as another building, so that a notional boundary needs to be assumed between
the buildings.

site boundary notional boundary

Building A Building B

compliance with the provisions compliance with the provisions

for space separation in respect for space separation in respect
of building A of building B

The notional boundary should be set in the area between the two buildings using the following rules:
1 It is only necessary to assume a notional boundary when the buildings are on the same site and either of the
buildings, new or existing, is of Residential or Assembly and Recreation use.
2 The notional boundary is assumed to exist in the space between the buildings and is positioned so that one of the
buildings would comply with the provisions for space separation having regard to the amount of its unprotected
area. In practice, if one of the buildings is existing, the position of the boundary will be set by the space separation
factors for that building.
3 The siting of the new building, or the second building if both are new, can then be checked to see that it also
complies – using the notional boundary as the relevant boundary for the second building.

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SPACE SEPARATION B4
Unprotected areas Small unprotected areas
14.10 Small unprotected areas in an otherwise
Unprotected areas and fire resistance protected area of wall are considered to pose
14.7 Any part of an external wall which has less a negligible risk of fire spread, and may be
fire resistance than the appropriate amount given desregarded. Diagram 44 shows the constraints
in Appendix A, Table A2, is considered to be an that apply to the placing of such areas in relation
unprotected area. to each other and to lines of compartmentation
inside the building. These constraints vary
External walls of protected shafts according to the size of each unprotected area.
forming stairways
Canopies
14.8 Any part of an external wall of a stairway
in a protected shaft is excluded from the 14.11 Some canopy structures would be exempt
assessment of unprotected area. from the application of the Building Regulations
by falling within Class VI or Class VII of Schedule
Note: There are provisions in the guidance to 2 to the Regulations (Exempt buildings and
B1 (Diagram 21) and B5 (paragraph 18.11 which works). Many others may not meet the exemption
refers to Section 2 of BS 5588: Part 5: 1991 Fire criteria and in such cases the provisions in this
precautions in the design, construction and use Section about limits of unprotected areas could
of buildings, Code of practice for firefighting stairs be onerous.
and lifts) about the relationship of external walls
for protected stairways to the unprotected areas In the case of a canopy attached to the side of a
of other parts of the building. building, provided that the edges of the canopy
are at least 2m from the relevant boundary,
Status of combustible surface materials separation distance may be determined from
the wall rather than the edge of the canopy
as unprotected area (see Diagram 45).
14.9 If an external wall has the appropriate fire In the case of a free-standing canopy structure
resistance, but has combustible material more above a limited risk or controlled hazard (for
than 1mm thick as its external surface, then that example over petrol pumps), in view of the high
wall is counted as an unprotected area amounting degree of ventilation and heat dissipation
to half the actual area of the combustible material, achieved by the open sided construction, and
see Diagram 43. (For the purposes of this provided the canopy is 1000mm or more from
provision, a material with a Class 0 rating (see the relevant boundary, the provisions for space
Appendix A, paragraph 12) need not be counted separation could reasonably be disregarded.
as unprotected area.)
Large uncompartmented buildings
Diagram 43 Status of combustible 14.12 Parts of the external wall of an
surface material as unprotected area uncompartmented building which are more than
See para 14.9
30m above mean ground level, may be disregarded
in the assessment of unprotected area.

area of fire-resisting
a wall with combustible
material = a x b

area of wall counted

as unprotected area
= 0.5a x b
b

area of fire-resisting wall

without combustible surface

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B4 SPACE SEPARATION

Diagram 44 Unprotected areas which may be disregarded in assessing the

separation distance from the boundary
See para 14.10

The unprotected area of the

external wall of a stairway
forming a protected shaft
may be disregarded for
separation distance purposes

compartment
floor

compartment wall

Unprotected areas which may be

disregarded for separation distance purposes

represents an unprotected area of not Dimensional restrictions

more than 1m2 which may consist of
two or more smaller areas within an 4m minimum distance
area of 1000mm x 1000mm
1500mm minimum distance

represents an area of not

dimension unrestricted
more than 0.1m2

Diagram 45 The effect of a canopy on separation distance

See para 14.11

SECTION VIEW ON ELEVATION

2m minimum

Distance to boundary measured

from building line

Boundary line Building line

Projections from the building line such as a canopy or a loading platform can be ignored when assessing separation distance.
This would not apply to an enclosed loading bay, for example if the illustration had shown side walls beneath the canopy.

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SPACE SEPARATION B4
External walls within 1000mm of the Basis for calculating acceptable
relevant boundary unprotected area
14.13 A wall situated within 1000mm from any 14.16 The basis of Methods 1 and 2 is set out in
point on the relevant boundary, and including a Fire Research Technical Paper No 5, 1963. This
wall coincident with the boundary, will meet the has been reprinted as part of the BRE Report
provisions for space separation if: referred to in paragraph 14.15. The aim is to
ensure that the building is separated from the
a. the only unprotected areas are those shown
boundary by at least half the distance at which
in Diagram 44 or referred to in paragraph
the total thermal radiation intensity received from
14.12; and
all unprotected areas in the wall would be 12.6
b. the rest of the wall is fire-resisting from kw/m2 (in still air), assuming the radiation intensity
both sides. at each unprotected area is:
a. 84 kw/m2, if the building is in the Residential,
External walls 1000mm or more from the Office or Assembly and Recreation purpose
relevant boundary groups, or is an open-sided multi-storey car
14.14 A wall situated at least 1000mm from any park in Purpose Group 7(b); and
point on the relevant boundary will meet the b. 168 kw/m2, if the building is in the Shop and
provisions for space separation if: Commercial, Industrial, Storage or Other
a. the extent of unprotected area does not non-residential purpose groups.
exceed that given by one of the methods
referred to in paragraph 14.15; and Sprinkler systems
b. the rest of the wall (if any) is fire-resisting. 14.17 If a building is fitted throughout with a
sprinkler system, it is reasonable to assume that
the intensity and extent of a fire will be reduced.
Methods for calculating The sprinkler system should meet the relevant
acceptable unprotected area recommendations of BS 5306: Part 2 Fire
extinguishing installations and equipment on
14.15 Two simple methods are given in this premises, Specification for sprinkler systems,
Approved Document for calculating the acceptable ie the relevant occupancy rating together with
amount of unprotected area in an external wall the additional requirements for life safety. In these
that is at least 1000mm from any point on the circumstances the boundary distance may be half
relevant boundary. (For walls within 1000mm of that for an otherwise similar, but unsprinklered,
the boundary see 14.13 above.) building, subject to there being a minimum distance
of 1m. Alternatively, the amount of unprotected
Method 1 may be used for small residential area may be doubled if the boundary distance is
buildings which do not belong to Purpose Group maintained.
2a (Institutional type premises), and is set out in
paragraph 14.19. Note: The presence of sprinklers may be taken
into account in a similar way when using the BRE
Method 2 may be used for most buildings or Report referred to in paragraph 14.15.
compartments for which Method 1 is not
appropriate, and is set out in paragraph 14.20.
Atrium buildings
There are other more precise methods, described
14.18 If a building contains one or more atria, the
in a BRE Report External fire spread: Building
recommendations of clause 28.2 in BS 5588: Part 7:
separation and boundary distances (BR 187,
1997 Fire precautions in the design, construction
BRE 1991), which may be used instead of
and use of buildings, Code of practice for the
methods 1 and 2. The “Enclosing Rectangle”
incorporation of atria in buildings should be followed.
and “Aggregate Notional Area” methods are
included in the BRE Report.

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B4 SPACE SEPARATION
Method 1 – Small Residential Method 2 – Other buildings or compartments
14.19 This method applies only to a building 14.20 This method applies to a building or
intended to be used as a dwelling house, or for compartment intended for any use and which
flats or other residential purposes (not Institutional), is not less than 1000mm from any point on the
which is 1000mm or more from any point on the relevant boundary. The following rules for
relevant boundary. determining the maximum unprotected area
should be read with Table 16.
The following rules for determining the maximum
unprotected area should be read with Diagram 46. a. Except for an open-sided car park in Purpose
Group 7(b) (see paragraph 12.4), the building or
a. The building should not exceed 3 storeys in
compartment should not exceed 10m in height.
height (basements not counted) or be more
than 24m in length: Note: For any building or compartment more
than 10m in height, the methods set out in
b. Each side of the building will meet the
the BRE Report External fire spread: Building
provisions for space separation if:
separation and boundary distances can
i. the distance of the side of the building be applied.
from the relevant boundary, and
b. Each side of the building will meet the
ii. the extent of the unprotected area, provisions for space separation if either:
are within the limits given in Diagram 46. i. the distance of the side of the building
from the relevant boundary, and
Note: In calculating the maximum unprotected
area, any areas falling within the limits shown ii. the extent of unprotected area,
in Diagram 44, and referred to in paragraph
are within the appropriate limits given in Table 16;
14.10, can be disregarded.
Note: In calculating the maximum unprotected
c. Any parts of the side of the building in excess
area, any areas shown in Diagram 44, and
of the maximum unprotected area should be
referred to in paragraph 14.10, can be
fire-resisting.
disregarded.
c. any parts of the side of the building in excess
Diagram 46 Permitted unprotected of the maximum unprotected area should be
areas in small residential buildings fire-resisting.
See para 14.19
Table 16 Permitted unprotected areas
in small buildings or compartments
24m maximum
Minimum distance between Maximum total
side of building and percentage of
relevant boundary unprotected area
(m) %
Purpose groups
A
boundary Residential, Shop & Commercial,
Office, Assembly Industrial,
and Recreation Storage & other
Minimum distance (A) Maximum total area of Non-residential
between side of building unprotected areas (sq.m) (1) (2) (3)
and relevant boundary (m)
n.a 1 4
1 5.6 1 2 8
2 12 2.5 5 20
3 18 5 10 40
4 24 7.5 15 60
5 30 10 20 80
6 no limit 12.5 25 100
Notes:
n.a = not applicable
a. Intermediate values may be obtained by interpolation.
b. For buildings which are fitted throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system, see para 14.17.
c. In the case of open-sided car parks in Purpose Group 7(b),
the distances set out in column (1) may be used instead of
those in column (2).

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ROOF COVERINGS B4
Section 15
ROOF COVERINGS Separation distances
15.5 The separation distance is the minimum
Introduction distance from the roof (or part of the roof) to
the relevant boundary, which may be a notional
15.1 The provisions in this section limit the use, boundary.
near a boundary, of roof coverings which will not
give adequate protection against the spread of Table 17 sets out separation distances according
fire over them. The term roof covering is used to to the type of roof covering and the size and use
describe constructions which may consist of one of the building. There are no restrictions on the
or more layers of material, but does not refer to use of roof coverings designated AA, AB or AC.
the roof structure as a whole. The provisions in Note: The boundary formed by the wall separating
this Section are principally concerned with the a pair of semi-detached houses may be disregarded
performance of roofs when exposed to fire from for the purposes of this Section (but see Section
the outside. 9, Diagram 28(b), which deals with roofs passing
15.2 The circumstances when a roof is subject to over the top of a compartment wall).
the provisions in Section 14 for space separation
are explained in paragraph 14.1. Diagram 47 Limitations on spacing
Other controls on roofs and size of plastics rooflights having a
Class 3 or TP(b) lower surface
15.3 There are provisions concerning the fire
properties of roofs in three other Sections of this See para 15.6
Document. In the guidance to B1 (paragraph 6.3)
there are provisions for roofs that are part of a means
of escape. In the guidance to B2 (paragraph 7.13)
there are provisions for the internal surfaces of rooflight*
rooflights as part of the internal lining of a room or max area 5 sq.m
circulation space. In the guidance to B3 there are
provisions in Section 8 for roofs which are used
as a floor, and in Section 9 for roofs that pass
over the top of a compartment wall.
3m** minimum
between any
Classification of performance two rooflights
in any direction
15.4 The performance of roof coverings is
designated by reference to the test methods
specified in BS 476 Fire tests on building
materials and structures, Part 3: 1958 External fire
exposure roof tests, as described in Appendix A.
rooflight*
The notional performance of some common roof
max area 5 sq.m
coverings is given in Table A5 of Appendix A.
Rooflights are controlled on a similar basis, and
plastics rooflights described in paragraph 15.6
and 15.7 may also be used. * or group of rooflights amounting to no more than 5 sq.m
** class 3 rooflights to rooms in industrial and other
non-residential purpose groups may be spaced 1800mm
apart provided the rooflights are evenly distributed and
do not exceed 20% of the area of the room

Notes:
1 there are restrictions on the use of plastic rooflights
in the guidance to B2.
2 surrounding roof covering to be a material of limited
combustibility for at least 3m distance.
3 where Diagram 28a or b applies, rooflights should
be at least 1500mm from the compartment wall.

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B4 ROOF COVERINGS
Plastics rooflights Thatch and wood shingles
15.6 Table 18 sets out the limitations on the use 15.9 Thatch and wood shingles should be
of plastics rooflights which have at least a Class 3 regarded as having an AD/BD/CD designation in
lower surface, and Table 19 sets out the limitations Table 17 if performance under BS 476: Part 3:
on the use of thermoplastic materials with a TP(a) 1958 cannot be established.
rigid or TP(b) classification (see also Diagram 47).
Note: Consideration can be given to thatched
The method of classifying thermoplastic materials
roofs being closer to the boundary than shown in
is given in Appendix A.
Table 17 if, for example, the following precautions
15.7 When used in rooflights, a rigid thermoplastic (based on Thatched buildings. New properties and
sheet product made from polycarbonate or from extensions [the “Dorset Model”]) are incorporated
unplasticised PVC, which achieves a Class 1 in the design:
rating for surface spread of flame when tested
a. the rafters are overdrawn with construction
to BS 476 Fire tests on building materials and
having not less than 30 min fire resistance;
structures, Part 7: 1971 (or 1987 or 1997) Surface
spread of flame tests for materials, can be b. the guidance given in Approved Document J
regarded as having an AA designation. Combustion appliances and fuel storage is
followed; and
Unwired glass in rooflights c. the smoke alarm installation (see Section 1)
15.8 When used in rooflights, unwired glass at is included in the roof space.
least 4mm thick has an AA designation.

Table 17 Limitations on roof covernings*

Designation† of covering of roof Minimum distance from any point on relevant boundary
or part of roof Less than 6m At least 6m At least 12m At least 20m
AA, AB or AC ● ● ● ●

BA, BB or BC ● ● ● ●

CA, CB or CC ● ● (1)(2) ● (1) ●

AD, BD or CD (1) ● ● (2) ● ●

DA, DB, DC or DD (1) ● ● ● ● (2)

Notes:
* See paragraph 15.8 for limitations on glass; paragraph 15.9 ● Acceptable.
for limitations on thatch and wood shingles; and paragraphs ● Not acceptable.
15.6 and 15.7 and Tables 18 and 19 for limitations on
plastics rooflights. 1. Not acceptable on any of the following buildings:
† The designation of external roof surfaces is explained in a Houses in terraces of three or more houses;
Appendix A. (See Table A5, for notional designations of b. Industrial, Storage or Other non-residential purpose
roof coverings.) group buildings of any size;
c. Any other buildings with a cubic capacity of more
Separation distances do not apply to the boundary between
than 1500m3.
roofs of a pair of semi-detached houses (see 15.5) and to
2. Acceptable on buildings not listed in Note 1, if part of the
enclosed/ covered walkways. However, see Diagram 28 if
roof is no more than 3m2 in area and is at least 1500mm
the roof passes over the top of a compartment wall.
from any similar part, with the roof between the parts
Polycarbonate and PVC rooflights which achieve a Class 1
covered with a material of limited combustibility.
rating by test, see paragraph 15.7, may be regarded as
having an AA designation.

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ROOF COVERINGS B4
Table 18 Class 3 plastics rooflights: limitations on use and boundary distance
Minimum classification Space which rooflight can serve Minimum distance from any point on
on lower surface (1) relevant boundary to rooflight with an
external designation† of:
AD BD CA CB CC CD DA DB DC DD
Class 3 a. balcony, verandah, carport, covered way 6m 20m
or loading bay, which has at least one
longer side wholly or permanently open.
b. detached swimming pool.
c. conservatory, garage or outbuilding,
with a maximum floor area of 40m2.
d. circulation space (2) 6m (3) 20m (3)
(except a protected stairway).
e. room (2).

Notes:
† The designation of external roof surfaces is explained in Products may have upper & lower surfaces with different
Appendix A. properties if they have double skins or are laminates of different
materials. In which case the more onerous distance applies.
None of the above designations are suitable for protected
stairways – see paragraph 7.13. 1. See also the guidance to B2.
Polycarbonate and PVC rooflights which achieve a Class 1 2. Single skin rooflight only, in the case of non-thermoplastic
rating by test, see paragraph 15.7, may be regarded as material.
having an AA designation. 3. The rooflight should also meet the provisions of Diagram 47.
Where Diagram 28a or b applies, rooflights should be at
least 1.5m from the compartment wall.

Table 19 TP(a) and TP(b) plastics rooflights: limitations on use and boundary distance
Minimum classification Space which rooflight can serve Minimum distance from any point on
on lower surface (1) relevant boundary to rooflight with an
external surface classification (1) of:
TP(a) TP(b)
1. TP(a) rigid any space except a protected stairway 6m (2) not applicable
2. TP(b) a. balcony, verandah, carport, covered way not applicable 6m
or loading bay, which has at least one
longer side wholly or permanently open.
b. detached swimming pool.
c. conservatory, garage or outbuilding,
with a maximum floor area of 40m2.
d. circulation space (3) not applicable 6m (4)
(except a protected stairway).
e. room (3).

Notes:
None of the above designations are suitable for protected 1. See also the guidance to B2.
stairways – see paragraph 7.13. 2. No limit in the case of any space described in 2a, b & c.
Polycarbonate and PVC rooflights which achieve a Class 1 3. Single skin rooflight only, in the case of non-thermoplastic
rating by test, see paragraph 15.7, may be regarded as material.
having an AA designation. 4. The rooflight should also meet the provisions of Diagram 47.
Where Diagram 28a or b applies, rooflights should be at
least 1.5m from the compartment wall.
Products may have upper & lower surfaces with different
properties if they have double skins or are laminates of different
materials. In which case the more onerous distance applies.

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B5 ACCESS AND FACILITIES FOR THE FIRE SERVICE

The Requirement
This Approved Document which takes effect on
1 July 2000, deals with the following Requirement
from Part B of Schedule 1 to the Building
Regulations 1991.

Requirement Limits on application

Access and facilities for the fire service

B5.-(1) The building shall be designed and constructed so as
to provide reasonable facilities to assist fire fighters in the
protection of life.
(2) Reasonable provision shall be made within the site of the
building to enable fire appliances to gain access to the building.

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INTRODUCTION B5
Guidance
Performance Facilities appropriate to a specific building
[Link] The main factor determining the facilities
In the Secretary of State’s view the requirement of needed to assist the fire service is the size of the
B5 will be met: building. Generally speaking fire fighting is carried
a. if there is sufficient means of external access out within the building.
to enable fire appliances to be brought near to a. In deep basements and tall buildings (see
the building for effective use; paragraph 18.2) firefighters will invariably work
b. if there is sufficient means of access into, and inside. They need special access facilities (see
within, the building for fire-fighting personnel Section 18), equipped with fire mains (see Section
to effect rescue and fight fire; 16). Fire appliances will need access to entry
points near the fire mains (see Section 17).
c. if the building is provided with sufficient
internal fire mains and other facilities to assist b. In other buildings, the combination of
fire-fighters in their tasks; and personnel access facilities offered by the
normal means of escape, and the ability to
d. if the building is provided with adequate work from ladders and appliances on the
means for venting heat and smoke from a fire perimeter, will generally be adequate without
in a basement. special internal arrangements. Vehicle access
These access arrangements and facilities are only may be needed to some or all of the
required in the interests of the health and safety of perimeter, depending on the size of the
people in and around the building. The extent to building (see Section 17);
which they are required will depend on the use c. For dwellings and other small buildings, it is
and size of the building in so far as it affects the usually only necessary to ensure that the
health and safety of those people. building is suffiently close to a point accessible
to fire brigade vehicles (see paragraph 17.2);
Introduction d. In taller blocks of flats, fire brigade personnel
access facilities are needed within the building,
B5.i The guidance given here covers the selection although the high degree of compartmentation
and design of facilities for the purpose of protecting means that some simplification is possible
life by assisting the fire service. compared to other tall buildings (see paragraph
To assist the fire service some or all of the 18.12);
following facilities may be necessary, depending e. Products of combustion from basement fires
mainly on the size of the building: tend to escape via stairways, making access
a. vehicle access for fire appliances; difficult for fire service personnel. The problem
can be reduced by providing vents (see
b. access for fire-fighting personnel; Section 19). Venting can improve visibility and
c. the provision of fire mains within the building; reduce temperatures, making search, rescue
and fire-fighting less difficult.
d. venting for heat and smoke from basement areas.
Insulating core panels
[Link] Guidance on the fire behaviour of insulating
core panels used for internal structures is given in
Appendix F.

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B5 FIRE MAINS
Section 16
FIRE MAINS

Introduction
16.1 Fire mains are installed in a building and
equipped with valves etc so that the fire service
may connect hoses for water to fight fires inside
the building. Rising fire mains serve floors above
ground, or upwards from the level at which the
fire service gain access (called the fire service
vehicle access level) if this is not ground level.
(In a podium design for instance, the fire service
vehicle access level may be above the ground
level, see Diagram 51.) Falling mains serve levels
below fire service vehicle access level.
Fire mains may be of the ‘dry’ type which are
normally empty and are supplied through hose
from a fire service pumping appliance. Alternately
they may be of the ‘wet’ type where they are kept
full of water and supplied from tanks and pumps
in the building. There should be a facility to allow
a wet system to be replenished from a pumping
appliance in an emergency.

Provision of fire mains

16.2 Buildings provided with firefighting shafts
should be provided with fire mains in those shafts.
The criteria for the provision of firefighting shafts
are given in Section 18.
16.3 Wet rising mains should be provided in
buildings with a floor at more than 60m above fire
service vehicle access level. In lower buildings
where fire mains are provided, either wet or dry
mains are suitable.

Number and location of fire mains

16.4 There should be one fire main in every
firefighting shaft. (See Section 18 for guidance on
the provision of firefighting shafts.)
16.5 The outlets from fire mains in firefighting
shafts should be sited in each firefighting lobby
giving access to the accommodation. (See
Section 18, paragraphs 18.9 and 18.10.)

Design and construction of

fire mains
16.6 Guidance on other aspects of the design
and construction of fire mains, not included in
the provisions of this Approved Document, should
be obtained from sections 2 and 3 of BS 5306:
Part 1: 1976 Fire extinguishing installations and
equipment on premises, Hydrant systems, hose
reels and foam inlets.

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VEHICLE ACCESS B5
Section 17
VEHICLE ACCESS connection it may not always be reasonable to
upgrade an existing route across a site to a small
building such as a single dwelling-house. The
Introduction options in such a case, from doing no work to
upgrading certain features of the route eg a sharp
17.1 For the purposes of this Approved Document bend, should be considered by the Building
vehicle access to the exterior of a building is Control Body in consultation with the fire service.
needed to enable high reach appliances, such
as turntable ladders and hydraulic platforms, to
be used, and to enable pumping appliances to Buildings not fitted with fire mains
supply water and equipment for firefighting and
rescue activities. 17.2 There should be vehicle access for a pump
appliance to small buildings (those of up to
Access requirements increase with building size 2000m2 with a top storey up to 11m above ground
and height. level) to either:
Fire mains (see Section 16) enable fire-fighters a. 15% of the perimeter; or
within the building to connect their hoses to a
water supply. In buildings fitted with fire mains, b. within 45m of every point on the projected
pumping appliances need access to the perimeter plan area (or ‘footprint’, see Diagram 48) of
at points near the mains, where fire-fighters can the building;
enter the building and where in the case of dry whichever is the less onerous.
mains, a hose connection will be made from the
appliance to pump water into the main. Note: For single family dwelling houses, the 45m
may be measured to a door to the dwelling.
The vehicle access requirements described in
Table 20 for buildings without fire mains, do not 17.3 There should be vehicle access for a pump
apply to blocks of flats & maisonettes because appliance to blocks of flats/maisonettes to within
access is required to each individual dwelling 45m of every dwelling entrance door.
(see 17.3), or to buildings with fire mains. 17.4 Vehicle access to buildings that do not have
Vehicle access routes and hard-standings fire mains (other than buildings described in
should meet the criteria decribed in paragraphs paragraphs 17.2 and 17.3) should be provided in
17.8 to 17.11 where they are to be used by fire accordance with Table 20.
service vehicles. 17.5 Every elevation to which vehicle access is
Note: Requirements cannot be made under the provided in accordance with paragraphs 17.2 or
Building Regulations for work to be done outside 17.3 or Table 20 should have a suitable door, not
the site of the works shown on the deposited less than 750mm wide, giving access to the
plans, building notice or initial notice. In this interior of the building.

Table 20 Fire service vehicle access to buildings (excluding blocks of flats)

not fitted with fire mains
Total floor area (1) Height of floor Provide vehicle Type of
of building m2 of top storey access (3)(4) to: appliance
above ground (2)
up to 2000 up to 11 see paragraph 17.2 pump
over 11 15% of perimeter (5) high reach
2000-8000 up to 11 15% of perimeter (5) pump
over 11 50% of perimeter (5) high reach
8000-16,000 up to 11 50% of perimeter (5) pump
over 11 50% of perimeter (5) high reach
16000-24,000 up to 11 75% of perimeter (5) pump
over 11 75% of perimeter (5) high reach
over 24,000 up to 11 100% of perimeter (5) pump
over 11 100% of perimeter (5) high reach
Notes:
1. The total floor area is the aggregate of all floors in the building 3. An access door is required to each such elevation
(excluding basements). (see paragraph 17.5).
2. In the case of Purpose Group 7(a) (storage) buildings, height 4. See paragraph 17.9 for meaning of access.
should be measured to mean roof level, see Methods of 5. Perimeter is decribed in Diagram 48.
Measurement in Appendix C.

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B5 VEHICLE ACCESS

Diagram 48 Example of building footprint and perimeter

See para 17.2 and Table 20

B
D

L J
F

N K
I

M
G

Plan of building AFGL where AL and FG are walls in common with other buildings.
The footprint of the building is the maximum aggregate plan perimeter found by the vertical projection of any overhanging storey
onto a ground storey (ie ABCDEFGHMNKL).
The perimeter of the building for the purposes of Table 20 is the sum of the lengths of the two external walls, taking account of the
footprint ie (A to B to C to D to E to F) + (G to H to M to N to K to L).
If the dimensions of the building were such that Table 20 requires vehicle access, the shaded area illustrates one possible example
of 15% of the perimeter. Note: There should be a door into the building in this length (see paragraph 17.5).
If the building does not have walls in common with other buildings, the lengths AL and FG would be included in the perimeter.

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VEHICLE ACCESS B5
Diagram 49 Relationship between building and hardstanding/access roads
for high reach fire appliances
See para 17.10

overhead obstructions to be avoided in this zone

face of building at ground level or vertical plane

of projecting upper storey

C D

A B

obstruction
hardstanding or access road

Type of appliance
Turntable Hydraulic
ladder platform
Dimension (m) Dimension (m)
A. Maximum distance of near edge of hardstanding from building 4.9 2.0
B. Minimum width of hardstanding 5.0 5.5
C. Minimum distance of further edge of hardstanding from building 10.0 7.5
D. Minimum width of unobstructed space (for swing of appliance platform) NA 2.2
Notes:
1 Hardstanding for high reach appliances should be as level 2 The hardstanding should be capable of withstanding a point
as possible and should not exceed a gradient of 1 in 12. load of 8.3 kg/cm2 to accommodate jacks.

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B5 VEHICLE ACCESS

Table 21 Typical fire service vehicle access route specification

Appliance Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum
type width of road width of turning circle turning circle clearance carrying
between gateways between between height capacity
kerbs (m) (m) kerbs (m) walls (m) (m) (tonnes)
Pump 3.7 3.1 16.8 19.2 3.7 12.5
High reach 3.7 3.1 26.0 29.0 4.0 17.0
Notes:
1. Fire appliances are not standardised. Some fire services 2. Because the weight of high reach appliances is distributed
have appliances of greater weight or different size. In over a number of axles, it is considered that their infrequent
consultation with the Fire Authority, the Building Control use of a carriageway or route designed to 12.5 tonnes
Body may adopt other dimensions in such circumstances. should not cause damage. It would therefore be reasonable
to design the roadbase to 12.5 tonnes, although structures
such as bridges should have the full 17 tonnes capacity.

Buildings fitted with fire mains 17.9 Where access is provided to an elevation in
accordance with Table 20 for:
Note: Where fire mains are provided in buildings a. buildings up to 11m in height (excluding
for which Sections 16 and 18 make no provision, buildings covered by paragraphs 17.2(b)
vehicle access may be to paragraph 17.6 or 17.7 and 17.3), there should be access for a pump
rather than Table 20. appliance adjacent to the building for the
17.6 In the case of a building fitted with dry fire percentage of the total perimeter specified;
mains there should be access for a pumping b. buildings over 11m in height, the access routes
appliance to within 18m of each fire main inlet should meet the guidance in Diagram 49.
connection point. The inlet should be visible from
the appliance. 17.10 Where access is provided to an elevation
for high reach appliances in accordance with
17.7 In the case of a building fitted with wet mains Table 20, overhead obstructions such as cables
the pumping appliance access should be to within and branches that would interfere with the setting
18m, and within sight of, a suitable entrance of ladders etc, should be avoided in the zone
giving access to the main, and in sight of the inlet shown in Diagram 49.
for the emergency replenishment of the suction
tank for the main. 17.11 Turning facilities should be provided in any
dead-end access route that is more than 20m
long (see Diagram 50). This can be by a hammer-
Design of access routes and head or turning circle, designed on the basis of
hard standings Table 21.

17.8 A vehicle access route may be a road or

other route which, including any manhole covers
and the like, meets the standards in Table 21 and
the following paragraphs.

Diagram 50 Turning facilities

See para 17.11

Fire service vehicles should not have to reverse more than 20m from the end of an access road

Fire service
vehicle Exit

20m max

Turning circle, hammerhead

or other point at which
vehicle can turn

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ACCESS TO BUILDINGS B5
Section 18
ACCESS TO BUILDINGS FOR Provision of firefighting shafts
FIRE-FIGHTING PERSONNEL
18.2 Buildings with a floor at more than 18m above
fire service vehicle access level, or with a basement
Introduction at more than 10m below fire service vehicle
access level, should be provided with firefighting
18.1 In low rise buildings without deep basements shafts containing firefighting lifts (see Diagram 51).
fire service personnel access requirements will be
18.3 Buildings in Purpose Groups 4, 6 and 7(a)
met by a combination of the normal means of
with a storey of 900m2 or more in area, where the
escape, and the measures for vehicle access in
floor is at a height of more than 7.5m above fire
Section 17, which facilitate ladder access to upper
service vehicle access level, should be provided
storeys. In other buildings the problems of reaching
with firefighting shaft(s), which need not include
the fire, and working inside near the fire, necessitate
firefighting lifts.
the provision of additional facilities to avoid delay
and to provide a sufficiently secure operating 18.4 Buildings with two or more basement
base to allow effective action to be taken. storeys, each exceeding 900m2 in area, should
be provided with firefighting shaft(s), which need
These additional facilities include firefighting lifts,
not include firefighting lifts.
firefighting stairs and firefighting lobbies, which
are combined in a protected shaft known as the 18.5 If a firefighting shaft is required to serve a
firefighting shaft (Diagram 52). basement it need not also serve the upper floors
unless they also qualify because of the height or
Guidance on protected shafts in general is given
size of the building. Similarly a shaft serving upper
in Section 9.
storeys need not serve a basement which is not
Note: Because of the high degree of large or deep enough to qualify in its own right.
compartmentation in blocks of flats/ maisonettes, However a firefighting stair and any firefighting lift
the provisions in this Section may be modified should serve all intermediate storeys between the
(see paragraph 18.12). highest and lowest storeys that they serve.

Diagram 51 Provision of firefighting shafts

See paras 18.2-18.4
BUILDINGS IN WHICH FIREFIGHTING SHAFTS SHOULD BE PROVIDED;
SHOWING WHICH STOREYS NEED TO BE SERVED

The upper storey(s) in

Purpose Groups 4, 6 & 7a
The upper storeys buildings with a storey of
in any building 900m2 or more which is
with a storey more more than 7.5m above fire
than 18m above service vehicle access level
fire service vehicle
access level
The basement storeys in any building with
2 or more basements each exceeding 900m2
Fire service vehicle
access level 7.5m Fire service
vehicle access
level
The basement
storeys in any
building with a
basement more B
A than 10m below C
fire service vehicle
access level
B & C Firefighting shafts need not include a firefighting lift

A Firefighting shafts should include firefighting lift(s)

Note: Height excludes any top storey(s) consisting exclusively of plant rooms.

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B5 ACCESS TO BUILDINGS
c. the same 900m2 per firefighting shaft criterion
Diagram 52 Components of a should be applied to calculate the number of
firefighting shaft shafts needed where basements require them.
See para 18.1
Table 22 Minimum number of
firefighting shafts in buildings fitted
with sprinklers
firefighting lobby Largest qualifying Minimum number
floor area (m2) of firefighting shafts
less than 900 1
self-closing 900-2000 2
fire doors
over 2000 2 plus 1 for every additional
firefighting stairs 1500m2 or part thereof

18.8 Firefighting shafts provided in accordance

with paragraph 18.7 should be located such that
every part of every storey, other than fire service
firefighting access level, is no more than 60m from the fire
lift in main outlet, measured on a route suitable for
lift shaft laying hose. If the internal layout is unknown at
the design stage, then every part of every such
storey should be no more than 40m in a direct
line from the fire main outlet.

Notes:
1 Outlets from a fire main should be located in the
Design and construction of
firefighting lobby. firefighting shafts
2 A firefighting lift is required if the building has a floor more
than 18m above, or more than 10m below, fire service 18.9 Except in blocks of flats and maisonettes
vehicle access level. (see paragraph 18.12), every firefighting stair and
3 This Diagram is only to illustrate the basic components
firefighting lift should be approached from the
and is not meant to represent the only acceptable layout.
Ventilation measures have not been shown (refer to BS 5588:
accommodation, through a firefighting lobby.
Part 5 Code of practice for firefighting stairs and lifts). 18.10 All firefighting shafts should be equipped
with fire mains having outlet connections and
valves in every firefighting lobby.
18.6 Shopping complexes should be provided 18.11 Firefighting shafts should be designed,
with firefighting shafts in accordance with the constructed and installed in accordance with the
recommendations of Section 3 of BS 5588: Part recommendations of BS 5588: Part 5: 1991 Code
10: of practice for firefighting stairs and lifts in respect
1991 Fire precautions in the design, construction of the following:
and use of buildings, Code of practice for
shopping complexes. a. Section 2: Planning and construction;
b. Section 3: Firefighting lift installation;
Number and location of c. Section 4: Electrical services.
firefighting shafts 18.12 Where the design of means of escape in
case of fire and compartmentation in blocks of
18.7 The number of firefighting shafts should: flats/maisonettes has followed the guidance in
a. comply with Table 22, if the building is fitted Sections 3 and 9, the addition of a firefighting
throughout with an automatic sprinkler system lobby between the firefighting stair(s) and the
meeting the relevant recommendations of protected corridor or lobby provided for means
BS 5306: Part 2 Fire extinguishing installations of escape purposes is not necessary. Similarly,
and equipment on premises, Specification for the firefighting lift can open directly into such
sprinkler systems; or protected corridor or lobby, but the firefighting
lift landing doors should not be more than 7.5m
b. if the building is not fitted with sprinklers, be from the door to the firefighting stair.
such that there is at least one for every 900m2
(or part thereof) of floor area of the largest
floor that is more than 18m above fire service Rolling shutters in compartment walls
vehicle access level (or above 7.5m covered
by paragraph 18.3); 18.13 Rolling shutters should be capable of being
opened and closed manually by the fire service.

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BASEMENT VENTING B5
Section 19
VENTING OF HEAT AND SMOKE Provision of smoke outlets
FROM BASEMENTS
19.3 Where practicable each basement space
should have one or more smoke outlets, but it is
Introduction not always possible to do this where, for example,
the plan is deep and the amount of external wall
19.1 The build-up of smoke and heat as a result is restricted by adjoining buildings. It is therefore
of a fire can seriously inhibit the ability of the acceptable to vent spaces on the perimeter and
fire service to carry out rescue and firefighting allow other spaces to be vented indirectly by fire-
operations in a basement. The problem can be fighters opening connecting doors. However if a
reduced by providing facilities to make conditions basement is compartmented, each compartment
tenable for firefighters. should have direct access to venting, without
having to open doors etc into another compartment.
19.2 Smoke outlets (also referred to as smoke
vents) provide a route for heat and smoke to 19.4 Smoke outlets, connected directly to the
escape to the open air from the basement level(s). open air, should be provided from every basement
They can also be used by the fire service to let storey, except for:
cooler air into the basement(s). (See Diagram 53.)
a. a basement in a single family dwellinghouse
of Purpose Group 1(b) or 1(c); or
b. any basement storey that has:
i. a floor area of not more than 200m2, and
ii. a floor not more than 3m below the
adjacent ground level.
19.5 Strong rooms need not be provided with
smoke outlets.

Diagram 53 Fire-resisting construction for smoke outlet shafts

See para 19.2

external external
wall wall

fire-resisting stallboard
construction outlet with
grill or
basement outlet
removable
with break-out or
cover
openable cover
GROUND FLOOR GROUND FLOOR

BASEMENT BASEMENT

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B5 BASEMENT VENTING
19.6 Where basements have external doors or 19.14 The air extraction system should give at
windows, the compartments containing the rooms least 10 air changes per hour and should be
with these doors or windows do not need smoke capable of handling gas temperatures of 300°C
outlets. It is common for basements to be open to for not less than one hour. It should come into
the air on one or more elevations. This may be the operation automatically on activation of the
result of different ground levels on different sides sprinkler system; alternatively activation may be
of the building. It is also common in 18th and 19th by an automatic fire detection system which
century terraced housing where an area below conforms to BS 5839: Part 1 Fire detection and
street level is excavated at the front and/or rear of alarm systems for buildings, Code of practice for
the terrace so that the lowest storey has ordinary system design, installation and servicing (at least
windows, and sometimes an external door. L3 standard). For further information on equipment
for removing hot smoke refer to BS 7346: Part 2
Natural smoke outlets Components for smoke and heat control systems,
Specification for powered smoke and heat
19.7 Smoke outlets should be sited at high level, exhaust ventilators.
either in the ceiling or in the wall of the space they
serve. They should be evenly distributed around
the perimeter to discharge in the open air outside Construction of outlet ducts
the building. or shafts
19.8 The combined clear cross-sectional area of
all smoke outlets should not be less than 1/40th 19.15 Outlet ducts or shafts, including any
of the floor area of the storey they serve. bulkheads over them (see Diagram 53), should be
enclosed in non-combustible construction having
19.9 Separate outlets should be provided from not less fire resistance than the element through
places of special fire hazard. which they pass.
19.10 If the outlet terminates at a point that is not 19.16 Where there are natural smoke outlet shafts
readily accessible, it should be kept unobstructed from different compartments of the same basement
and should only be covered with a non-combustible storey, or from different basement storeys, they
grille or louvre. should be separated from each other by non-
19.11 If the outlet terminates in a readily accessible combustible construction having not less fire
position, it may be covered by a panel, stallboard resistance than the storey(s) they serve.
or pavement light which can be broken out or
opened. The position of such covered outlets
should be suitably indicated. Basement car parks
19.12 Outlets should not be placed where they 19.17 The provisions for ventilation of basement
would prevent the use of escape routes from car parks in Section 12 may be taken as satisfying
the building. the requirements in respect of the need for smoke
venting from any basement that is used as a
Mechanical smoke extract car park.
19.13 A system of mechanical extraction may
be provided as an alternative to natural venting
to remove smoke and heat from basements,
provided that the basement storey(s) are fitted
with a sprinkler system. The sprinkler system
should be in accordance with the principles of BS
5306: Part 2 Fire extinguishing installations and
equipment on premises, Specification for sprinkler
systems. (It is not considered necessary in this
particular case to install sprinklers on the storeys
other than the basement(s) unless they are
needed for other reasons.)
Note: Car parks are not normally expected to be
fitted with sprinklers (see paragraph 12.2).

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Appendix A PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES B

Appendix A
PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS 2 Building Regulations deal with fire safety in buildings
as a whole. Thus they are aimed at limiting fire hazard.
AND STRUCTURES
The aim of standard fire tests is to measure or
assess the response of a material, product, structure
Introduction or system to one or more aspects of fire behaviour.
Standard fire tests cannot normally measure fire
1 Much of the guidance in this document is given hazard. They form only one of a number of factors
in terms of performance in relation to British or that need to be taken into account. Other factors
European Standards for products or methods of are set out in this publication.
test or design or in terms of European Technical
Approvals. In such cases the material, product or
structure should: Fire resistance
a. be in accordance with a specification or 3 Factors having a bearing on fire resistance, that
design which has been shown by test to be are considered in this document, are:
capable of meeting that performance; or
a. fire severity;
b. have been assessed from test evidence against
appropriate standards, or by using relevant b. building height; and
design guides, as meeting that performance; or c. building occupancy.
Note: For this purpose suitably qualified fire 4 The standards of fire resistance given are based
safety engineers, laboratories accredited by on assumptions about the severity of fires and the
UKAS for conducting the relevant tests, the consequences should an element fail. Fire severity
BRE and other bodies such as the BBA and is estimated in very broad terms from the use of
WIMLAS Ltd might be expected to have the the building (its purpose group), on the assumption
necessary expertise. For materials/products that the building contents (which constitute the
where European standards or approvals are fire load) are similar for buildings in the same use.
not yet available and for a transition period
after they become available, British standards A number of factors affect the standard of fire
may continue to be used. Any body notified resistance specified. These are:
to the UK Government by the Government of a. the amount of combustible material per unit of
another member state of the European Union floor area in various types of building (the fire
as capable of assessing such materials/products load density);
against the relevant British Standards, may also
be expected to have the necessary expertise. b. the height of the top floor above ground,
Where European materials/products standards which affects the ease of escape and of fire
or approvals are available, any body notified fighting operations, and the consequences
to the European Commission as competent should large scale collapse occur;
to assess such materials or products against c. occupancy type, which reflects the ease with
the relevant European standards or technical which the building can be evacuated quickly;
approval can be considered to have the
appropriate expertise. d. whether there are basements, because the
lack of an external wall through which to vent
c. where tables of notional performance are heat and smoke may increase heat build-up,
included in this document, conform with an and thus affect the duration of a fire, as well
appropriate specification given in these tables; or as complicating fire-fighting; and
d. in the case of fire-resisting elements: e. whether the building is of single storey
i. conform with an appropriate specification construction (where escape is direct and
given in Part II of the Building Research structural failure is unlikely to precede evacuation).
Establishments’ Report Guidelines for the Because the use of buildings may change, a
construction of fire resisting structural precise estimate of fire severity based on the fire
elements (BR 128, BRE 1988); or load due to a particular use may be misleading.
ii. be designed in accordance with a relevant Therefore if a fire engineering approach of this
British Standard or Eurocode. kind is adopted the likelihood that the fire load
may change in the future needs to be considered.
Note: Any test evidence used to substantiate
the fire resistance rating of a construction 5 Performance in terms of the fire resistance to be
should be carefully checked to ensure that met by elements of structure, doors and other forms
it demonstrates compliance adequate and of construction is determined by reference to BS 476
applicable to the intended use. Small differences Fire tests on building materials and structures,
in detail (such as fixing method, joints, dimensions, Parts 20-24: 1987, ie Part 20 Method for determination
etc) may significantly affect the rating. of the fire resistance of elements of construction
(general principles), Part 21 Methods for determination

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B Appendix A PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES

of the fire resistance of loadbearing elements of Table A5 gives notional designations of some
construction, Part 22 Methods for determination generic roof coverings.
of the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements
of construction, Part 23 Methods for determination
of the contribution of components to the fire Non-combustible materials
resistance of a structure, and Part 24 Method for
determination of the fire resistance of ventilation 7 Non-combustible materials are defined in
ducts (or to BS 476: Part 8: 1972 in respect of Table A6 either as listed products, or in terms of
items tested or assessed prior to 1 January 1988) performance when tested to BS 476: Part 4: 1970
in respect of one or more of the following criteria: Non-combustibility test for materials or Part 11:
1982 Method for assessing the heat emission
a. resistance to collapse (loadbearing capacity), from building products.
which applies loadbearing elements only;
b. resistance to fire penetration (integrity); and Table A6 identifies non-combustible products
and materials, and lists circumstances where
c. resistance to the transfer of excessive heat their use is necessary.
(insulation).
Table A1 gives the specific requirements for Materials of limited combustibility
each element in terms of the three performance
criteria above. (Provisions for fire doors are set 8 Materials of limited combustibility are defined in
out in Appendix B, Table B1.) Table A7 by reference to the method specified in
Table A2 sets out the minimum periods of fire BS 476: Part 11: 1982.
resistance for elements of structure. Table A7 also includes composite products
Table A3 sets out criteria appropriate to the (such as plasterboard) which are considered
suspended ceilings that can be accepted as acceptable, and where these are exposed as
contributing to the fire resistance of a floor. linings they should also meet any appropriate
flame spread rating.
Table A4 sets out limitations on the use of
uninsulated fire-resisting glazed elements.
These limitations do not apply to the use of Internal linings
insulated fire-resisting glazed elements.
Information on tested elements is frequently given 9 Flame spread over wall or ceiling surfaces is
in literature available from manufacturers and controlled by providing for the lining materials or
trade associations. products to meet given performance levels in tests
appropriate to the materials or products involved.
Information on tests on fire-resisting elements is
also given in such publications as: 10 Lining systems which can be effectively
tested for ‘surface spread of flame’ are rated for
Association for Specialist Fire Protection/Steel performance by reference to the method specified
Construction Institute/Fire Test Study Group Fire in BS 476: Part 7: 1971 Surface spread of flame
protection for structural steel in buildings, second tests for materials, or 1987 Method for classification
edition – revised, 1992. (Available from the ASFP, of the surface spread of flame of products, or 1997
Association House, 235 Ash Road, Aldershot, Method of test to determine the classification of
Hants GU12 4DD and the Steel Construction the surface spread of flame of products under
Institute, Silwood Park, Ascot, Berks SL5 7QN). which materials or products are classified 1, 2, 3
or 4 with Class 1 being the highest.
Roofs 11 To restrict the use of materials which ignite
easily, which have a high rate of heat release
6 Performance in terms of the resistance of roofs and/or which reduce the time to flash over,
to external fire exposure is determined by reference maximum acceptable ‘fire propagation’ indices
to the methods specified in BS 476: Part 3: 1958 are specified. These are determined by reference
External fire exposure roof tests under which to the method specified in BS 476: Part 6: 1981
constructions are designated by 2 letters in the or 1989 Method of test for fire propagation of
range A to D, with an AA designation being the best. products. Index of performance (I) relates to the
The first letter indicates the time to penetration, and overall test performance, whereas sub-index (i1)
the second letter a measure of the spread of flame. is derived from the first three minutes of test.
Note: This is not the most recent version of the
standard. 12 The highest product performance classification
for lining materials is Class 0. This is achieved if
In some circumstances roofs, or parts of roofs, a material or the surface of a composite product
may need to be fire-resisting, for example if used is either:
as an escape route or if the roof performs the
function of a floor. Such circumstances are a. composed throughout of materials of limited
covered in Sections 2, 6 and 8. combustibility; or

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Appendix A PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES B

b. a Class 1 material which has a fire propagation TP(a) rigid:
index (I) of not more than 12 and sub-index (i1)
of not more than 6. i. Rigid solid pvc sheet;

Note: Class 0 is not a classification identified in ii. Solid (as distinct from double- or multiple-
any British Standard test. skin) polycarbonate sheet at least 3mm thick;
iii. Multi-skinned rigid sheet made from
13 Composite products defined as materials of unplasticised pvc or polycarbonate which
limited combustibility (see paragraph 8 above and has a Class 1 rating when tested to BS 476:
Table A7) should in addition comply with the test Part 7: 1971, 1987 or 1997;
requirement appropriate to any surface rating iv. Any other rigid thermoplastic product, a
specified in the guidance on requirements B2, specimen of which (at the thickness of the
B3 and B4. product as put on the market), when tested to
14 The notional performance ratings of certain BS 2782: 1970 as amended in 1974: Method
widely used generic materials or products are 508A Rate of burning (Laboratory method),
listed in Table A8 in terms of their performance in performs so that the test flame extinguishes
the traditional lining tests BS 476 Parts 6 and 7. before the first mark, and the duration of
flaming or afterglow does not exceed 5
15 Results of tests on proprietary materials are seconds following removal of the burner.
frequently given in literature available from
manufacturers and trade associations. TP(a) flexible:
Any reference used to substantiate the surface Flexible products not more than 1mm thick which
spread of flame rating of a material or product comply with the Type C requirements of BS 5867
should be carefully checked to ensure that it is Specification for fabrics for curtains and drapes
suitable, adequate and applicable to the construction Part 2 Flammability requirements when tested to
to be used. Small differences in detail, such as BS 5438 Methods of test for flammability of textile
thickness, substrate, colour, form, fixings, adhesive fabrics when subjected to a small igniting flame
etc, may significantly affect the rating. applied to the face or bottom edge of vertically
oriented specimens, Test 2, 1989 with the flame
applied to the surface of the specimens for 5, 15,
Thermoplastic materials 20 and 30 seconds respectively, but excluding the
cleansing procedure; and
16 A thermoplastic material means any synthetic
polymeric material which has a softening point
below 200°C if tested to BS 2782 Methods of TP(b):
testing plastics, Part 1 Thermal properties, i. Rigid solid polycarbonate sheet products less
Method 120A: 1990 Determination of the Vicat than 3mm thick, or multiple-skin polycarbonate
softening temperature of thermoplastics. sheet products which do not qualify as TP(a)
Specimens for this test may be fabricated from by test. or
the original polymer where the thickness of
material of the end product is less than 2.5mm. ii. Other products which, when a specimen of
the material between 1.5 and 3mm thick is
17 A thermoplastic material in isolation can not tested in accordance with BS 2782: 1970, as
be assumed to protect a substrate, when used as amended in 1974: Method 508A, has a rate of
a lining to a wall or ceiling. The surface rating of burning which does not exceed 50mm/minute.
both products must therefore meet the required
classification. If however, the thermoplastic Note: If it is not possible to cut or machine a
material is fully bonded to a non-thermoplastic 3mm thick specimen from the product then
substrate, then only the surface rating of the a 3mm test specimen can be moulded from
composite will need to comply. the same material as that used for the
manufacture of the product.
18 Concessions are made for thermoplastic
materials used for window glazing, rooflights,
and lighting diffusers within suspended ceilings, Fire test methods
which may not comply with the criteria specified
in paragraphs 10 et seq. They are described in 20 A guide to the various test methods in BS 476
the guidance on requirements B2 and B4. and BS 2782 is given in PD 6520 Guide to fire test
19 For the purposes of the requirements B2 and methods for building materials and elements of
B4 thermoplastic materials should either be used construction (available from the British Standards
according to their classification 0- 3, under the Institution).
BS 476: Parts 6 and 7 tests as described in A guide to the development and presentation of
paragraphs 10 et seq, if they have such a rating, fire tests and their use in hazard assessment is
or they may be classified TP(a) rigid, TP(a) flexible, given in BS 6336 Guide to development and
or TP(b) according to the following methods: presentation of fire tests and their use in hazard
assessment.

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B Appendix A PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES

Table A1 Specific provisions of test for fire resistance of elements of structure etc
Part of building Minimum provisions when tested to the relevant part Method of
of BS 476(1) (minutes) exposure
Loadbearing Integrity Insulation
capacity (2)
1.9 Structural frame, beam or column see Table A2 not applicable not applicable exposed faces
2.9 Loadbearing wall (which is not see Table A2 not applicable not applicable each side
also a wall described in any of separately
the following items).
3.9 Floors (3)
5.9 a. in upper storey of 2-storey 30 15 15
dwellinghouse (but not over
garage or basement);
5.9 b. between a shop and flat above; 60 or see Table A2 60 or see Table A2 60 or see Table A2 from
(whichever is greater) (whichever is greater) (whichever is greater) underside (4)
5.9 c. any other floor, including see Table A2 see Table A2 see Table A2
compartment floors.
4.9 Roofs
5.9 a. any part forming an escape route; 30 30 30 from
5.9 b. any roof that performs the see Table A2 see Table A2 see Table A2 underside (4)
function of a floor.
5.9 External walls
5.9 a. any part less than 1000mm from see Table A2 see Table A2 see Table A2 each side
any point on the relevant boundary; separately
5.9 b. any part 1000mm or more from see Table A2 see Table A2 15 from inside
the relevant boundary (5); the building
5.9 c. any part adjacent to an external 30 30 no provision (6)(7) from inside
escape route (see Section 6, the building
Diagram 22).
6.9 Compartment walls 60 or see Table A2 60 or see Table A2 60 or see Table A2 each side
separating occupancies (see 9.20f) (whichever is less) (whichever is less) (whichever is less) separately
7.9 Compartment walls see Table A2 see Table A2 see Table A2 each side
(other than in item 6) separately
8.9 Protected shafts, excluding any
firefighting shaft
8.9 a. any glazing described in Section 9, not applicable 30 no provision (7)
a. Diagram 30;
8.9 b. any other part between the shaft 30 30 30 each side
and a protected lobby/corridor separately
described in Diagram 30 above;
8.9 c. any part not described in (a) see Table A2 see Table A2 see Table A2
or (b) above.
9.9 Enclosure (which does not form
part of a compartment wall or a
protected shaft) to a:
9.9 a. protected stairway; 30 30 30 (8) each side
separately
9.9 b. lift shaft. 30 30 30
10. Firefighting shafts
10. a. construction separating firefighting 120 120 120 from side remote
shaft from rest of building; from shaft
60 60 60 from shaft side
10. b. construction separating firefighting 60 60 60 each side
stair, firefighting lift shaft and separately
firefighting lobby.

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Table A1 continued
Part of building Minimum provisions when tested to the relevant part Method of
of BS 476(1) (minutes) exposure
Loadbearing Integrity Insulation
capacity (2)
11. Enclosure (which is not a compartment
wall or described in item 8) to a:
11. a. protected lobby; 30 30 30 (8) each side
separately
11. b. protected corridor. 30 30 30 (8)
12. Sub-division of a corridor 30 30 30 (8) each side
separately
13. Wall separating an attached or 30 30 30 (8) from garage side
integral garage from a dwellinghouse
14. Enclosure in a flat or maisonette to 30 30 30 (8) each side
a protected entrance hall, or to a separately
protected landing
15. Fire-resisting construction:
11. a. in dwellings not described 30 30 30 (8)
elsewhere; each
11. b. enclosing places of special fire 30 30 30 each side
hazard (see 9.12); separately
11. c. between store rooms and sales 30 30 30
area in shops (see 6.54).
11. d. fire-resisting subdivision described 30 30 30
11. d. in Section 10, Diagram 34(b)
16. Cavity barrier not applicable 30 15 each side
separately
17. Ceiling described in Section 10, not applicable 30 30 from underside
Diagram 33 or Diagram 35
18. Duct described in paragraph 10.14e not applicable 30 no provision from outside
19. Casing around a drainage system not applicable 30 no provision from outside
described in Section 11, Diagram 38
20. Flue walls described in Section 11, not applicable half the period half the period from outside
Diagram 39 specified in Table A2 specified in Table A2
for the compartment for the compartment
wall/floor wall/floor
21. Construction described in Note (a) not applicable 30 30 from underside
to paragraph 15.9.
22. Fire doors see Table B1

Notes:
1. Part 21 for loadbearing elements, Part 22 for non-loadbearing 4. A suspended ceiling should only be relied on to contribute
elements, Part 23 for fire-protecting suspended ceilings, and to the fire resistance of the floor if the ceiling meets the
Part 24 for ventilation ducts. BS 476:Part 8 results are acceptable appropriate provisions given in Table A3.
for items tested or assessed before 1st January 1988. 5. The guidance in Section 14 allows such walls to contain
2. Applies to loadbearing elements only (see [Link] and areas which need not be fire-resisting (unprotected areas).
Appendix E). 6. Unless needed as part of a wall in item 5a or 5b.
3. Guidance on increasing the fire resistance of existing timber 7. Except for any limitations on glazed elements given in Table A4.
floors is given in BRE Digest 208 Increasing the fire resistance 8. See Table A4 for permitted extent of uninsulated glazed elements.
of existing timber floors (BRE 1988).

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B Appendix A PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES

Table A2 Minimum periods of fire resistance

Purpose group of building Minimum periods (minutes) for elements of structure in a:
Basement storey ($) Ground or upper storey
including floor over
Depth (m) of a lowest Height (m) of top floor above ground, in
basement a building or separated part of a building
more not more not more not more not more more
than 10 than 10 than 5 than 18 than 30 than 30
1. Residential (domestic):
1. a. flats and maisonettes 90 60 30* 60**† 90** 120**
1. b. and c. dwellinghouses not relevant 30* 30* 60@ not relevant not relevant
2. Residential:
1. a. Institutional æ 90 60 30* 60 90 120#
1. b. Other residential 90 60 30* 60 90 120#
3. Office:
not
1. – not sprinklered 90 60 30* 60 90 permitted
1. – sprinklered (2) 60 60 30* 30* 60 120#
4. Shop and commercial:
not
1. – not sprinklered 90 60 60 60 90 permitted
1. – sprinklered (2) 60 60 30* 60 60 120#
5. Assembly and recreation:
not
1. – not sprinklered 90 60 60 60 90 permitted
1. – sprinklered (2) 60 60 30* 60 60 120#
6. Industrial:
not
1. – not sprinklered 120 90 60 90 120 permitted
1. – sprinklered (2) 90 60 30* 60 90 120#
7. Storage and other non-residential:
1. a. any building or part not
described elsewhere:
not
1. – not sprinklered 120 90 60 90 120 permitted
1. – sprinklered (2) 90 60 30* 60 90 120#
1. b. car park for light vehicles:
not not
1. b. i. open sided car park (3) applicable applicable 15*+ 15*+ 15*+ 60
1. b. ii. any other car park 90 60 30* 60 90 120#

Single storey buildings are subject to the periods under the heading “not more than 5”. If they have basements, the basement storeys
are subject to the period appropriate to their depth.

Modifications referred to in Table A2: [for application of the table see next page]
$ The floor over a basement (or if there is more than 1 basement, the floor over the topmost basement) should meet the provisions
for the ground and upper storeys if that period is higher.
* Increased to a minimum of 60 minutes for compartment walls separating buildings.
** Reduced to 30 minutes for any floor within a maisonette, but not if the floor contributes to the support of the building.
æ Multi-storey hospitals designed in accordance with the NHS Firecode documents should have a minimum 60 minutes standard.
# Reduced to 90 minutes for elements not forming part of the structural frame.
+ Increased to 30 minutes for elements protecting the means of escape.
† Refer to paragraph 8.10 regarding the acceptability of 30 minutes in flat conversions.
@ 30 minutes in the case of 3 storey dwellinghouses, increased to 60 minutes minimum for compartment walls separating buildings.

Notes:
1. Refer to Table A1 for the specific provisions of test.
2. ”Sprinklered” means that the building is fitted throughout with an automatic sprinkler system meeting the relevant recommendations
of BS 5306 Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises, Part 2 Specification for sprinkler systems; ie the relevant
occupancy rating together with the additional requirements for life safety.
3. The car park should comply with the relevant provisions in the guidance on requirement B3, Section 12.

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Application of the fire resistance standards c. Where one side of a basement is (due to the
in Table A2: slope of the ground) open at ground level,
giving an opportunity for smoke venting and
a. Where one element of structure supports or access for fire fighting, it may be appropriate
carries or gives stability to another, the fire to adopt the standard of fire resistance
resistance of the supporting element should applicable to above-ground structures for
be no less than the minimum period of fire elements of structure in that storey.
resistance for the other element (whether that
other element is loadbearing or not). d. Although most elements of structure in a
single storey building may not need fire
There are circumstances where it may be resistance (see the guidance on requirement
reasonable to vary this principle, for example: B3, paragraph 8.4(a)), fire resistance will be
i. where the supporting structure is in the needed if the element:
open air, and is not likely to be affected i. is part of (or supports) an external wall
by the fire in the building; or and there is provision in the guidance
ii. the supporting structure is in a different on requirement B4 to limit the extent of
compartment, with a fire-separating openings and other unprotected areas
element (which has the higher standard in the wall; or
of fire resistance) between the supporting ii. is part of (or supports) a compartment
and the separated structure; or wall, including a wall common to two
iii. where a plant room on the roof needs a or more buildings, or a wall between
higher fire resistance than the elements a dwelling house and an attached or
of structure supporting it. integral garage; or
b. Where an element of structure forms part of iii. supports a gallery.
more than one building or compartment, that For the purposes of this paragraph, the ground
element should be constructed to the standard storey of a building which has one or more
of the greater of the relevant provisions. basement storeys and no upper storeys, may be
considered as a single storey building. The fire
resistance of the basement storeys should be that
appropriate to basements.

Table A3 Limitations on fire-protecting suspended ceilings (see Table A1, Note 4)

Height of building or Type of floor Provision for fire Description of
separated part (m) resistance or floor suspended ceiling
(minutes)
less than 18 not compartment 60 or less Type A, B, C or D
compartment less than 60
60 Type B, C or D
18 or more any 60 or less Type C or D
no limit any more than 60 Type D

Notes:
Ceiling type and description Any access panels provided in fire protecting suspended
A. Surface of ceiling exposed to the cavity should be Class 0 ceilings of type C or D should be secured in position by
or Class 1. releasing devices or screw fixings, and they should be shown
B. Surface of ceiling exposed to the cavity should be Class 0. to have been tested in the ceiling assembly in which they
are incorporated.
C. Surface of ceiling exposed to the cavity should be Class 0.
Ceiling should not contain easily openable access panels.
D. Ceiling should be of a material of limited combustibility and not
contain easily openable access panels. Any insulation above
the ceiling should be of a material of limited combustibility.

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B Appendix A PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES

Table A4 Limitations on the use of uninsulated glazed elements on escape routes

(These limitations do not apply to glazed elements which satisfy the relevant insulation criterion, see
Table A1) (See BS 5588: Part 7 for glazing to atria; see BS 5588: Part 8 for glazing to refuges)
Position of glazed element Maximum total glazed area in parts of a building with access to:
a single stairway more than one stairway
walls door leaf walls door leaf
Single family dwellinghouses
1. a. Within the enclosures of:
i. a protected stairway, or within fixed fanlights only unlimited fixed fanlights only unlimited
fire-resisting separation shown
in Section 2 Diagram 3; or
1. a. ii. an existing stair (see para 2.18). unlimited unlimited unlimited unlimited
1. b. Within fire-resisting separation:
1. a. i. shown in Section 2 Diagram 4, or unlimited above unlimited above unlimited above unlimited above
ii. described in paras 2.13b & 2.20. 100mm from floor 100mm from floor 100mm from floor 100mm from floor
c. Existing window between an attached/ unlimited not applicable unlimited not applicable
integral garage and the house.
Flats and maisonettes
2. Within the enclosures of a protected fixed fanlights only unlimited above fixed fanlights only unlimited above
entrance hall or protected landing or 1100mm from floor 1100mm from floor
within fire-resisting separation shown
in Section 3 Diagram 9.
General (except dwellinghouses)
3. Between residential/sleeping nil nil nil nil
accommodation and a common
escape route (corridor, lobby or stair).
4. Between a protected stairway (1) and:
4. a. the accommodation; or nil 25% of door area unlimited above 50% of door area
1100mm (2)
4. b. a corridor which is not a protected
corridor. Other than in item 3 above.
5. Between:
4. a. a protected stairway (1) and a protected unlimited above unlimited above unlimited above unlimited above
lobby or protected corridor; or 1100mm from floor 100mm from floor 100mm from floor 100mm from floor
4. b. accommodation and a protected lobby.
Other than in item 3 above.
6. Between the accommodation and a unlimited above unlimited above unlimited above unlimited above
protected corridor forming a dead end. 1100mm from floor 100mm from floor 1100mm from floor 100mm from floor
Other than in item 3 above.
7. Between accommodation and any other not applicable not applicable unlimited above unlimited above
corridor; or subdividing corridors. Other 100mm from floor 100mm from floor
than in item 3 above.
8. Adjacent an external escape route unlimited above unlimited above unlimited above unlimited above
described in para 4.27. 1100mm from paving 1100mm from paving 1100mm from paving 1100mm from
paving
9. Adjacent an external escape stair unlimited unlimited unlimited unlimited
(see para 6.25 & Diagram 22) or
roof escape (see para 6.35).

Notes:
1. If the protected stairway is also a protected shaft (see 3. The 100mm limit is intended to reduce the risk of fire spread
paragraph 9.36) or a firefighting stair (see Section 18) there from a floor covering.
may be further restrictions on the uses of glazed elements. 4. Items 1c, 3 and 6 apply also to single storey buildings.
2. Measured vertically from the landing floor level or the stair
pitch line.

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Appendix A PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES B

Table A5 Notional designations of roof coverings
Part i: Pitched roofs covered with slates or tiles
Covering material Supporting structure Designation
1. Natural slates timber rafters with or without underfelt, AA
2. Fibre reinforced cement slates sarking, boarding, woodwool slabs, compressed
3. Clay tiles straw slabs, plywood, wood chipboard, or fibre
4. Concrete tiles insulating board

Note: Although the Table does not include guidance for roofs covered with bitumen felt, it should be noted that there is a wide range of
materials on the market and information on specific products is readily available from manufacturers.
Part ii: Pitched roofs covered with self-supporting sheet
Roof covering material Construction Supporting structure Designation
1. Profiled sheet of galvanised steel, single skin without underlay, or structure of timber, steel AA
aluminium, fibre reinforced cement, with underlay or plasterboard, or conctrete
or pre-painted (coil coated) steel fibre insulating board, or
or aluminium with a pvc or woodwool slab
pvf2 coating
2. Profiled sheet of galvanised steel, double skin without interlayer, or structure of timber, steel AA
aluminium, fibre reinforced cement, with interlayer of resin bonded or concrete
or pre-painted (coil coated) steel glass fibre, mineral wool slab,
or aluminium with a pvc or polystyrene, or polyurethane
pvf2 coating
Part iii. Flat roofs covered with bitumen felt
A flat roof comprising of bitumen felt should (irrespective of the felt specification) be deemed to be of designation AA if the felt is laid
on a deck constructed of 6mm plywood, 12.5mm wood chipboard, 16mm (finished) plain edged timber boarding, compressed straw
slab, screeded wood wool slab, profiled fibre reinforced cement or steel deck (single or double skin) with or without fibre insulating
board overlay, profiled aluminium deck (single or double skin) with or without fibre insulating board overlay, or concrete or clay pot
slab (insitu or pre cast), and has a surface finish of:
a. bitumen-bedded stone chippings covering the whole surface to a depth of at least 12.5mm;
b. bitumen-bedded tiles of a non-combustible material;
c. sand and cement screed; or
d. macadam.
Part iv. Pitched or flat roofs covered with fully supported material
Covering material Supporting structure Designation
1. Aluminium sheet timber joists and: AA*
2. Copper sheet tongued and grooved boarding,
3. Zinc sheet or plain edged boarding
4. Lead sheet
steel or timber joists with deck of: AA
5. Mastic asphalt
woodwool slabs, compressed straw slab,
6. Vitreous enamelled steel
wood chipboard, fibre insulating board,
7. Lead/tin alloy coated steel sheet
or 9.5mm plywood
8. Zinc/aluminium alloy coated steel sheet
9. Pre-painted (coil coated) steel sheet concrete or clay pot slab (insitu or pre-cast) AA
including liquid-applied pvc coatings or non-combustible deck of steel, aluminium,
or fibre cement (with or without insulation)

Notes:
* Lead sheet supported by timber joists and plain edged boarding should be regarded as having a BA designation.

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B Appendix A PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES

Table A6 Use and definitions of non-combustible materials

References in AD.B guidance to situations where Definitions of non-combustible materials
such materials should be used
1. ladders referred to in the guidance to B1, paragraph 6.22. a. Any material which when tested to BS476:Part 11
2. refuse chutes meeting the provisions in the guidance does not flame nor cause any rise in temperature on
to B3, paragraph 9.35c. either the centre (specimen) or furnace thermocouples.

3. suspended ceilings and their supports where there is b. Totally inorganic materials such as concrete, fired clay,
provision in the guidance to B3, paragraph 10.13, for ceramics, metals, plaster and masonry containing not
them to be constructed of non-combustible materials. more than 1% by weight or volume of organic material.
(Use in buildings of combustible metals such as
4. pipes meeting the provisions in the guidance to B3, magnesium/aluminium alloys should be assessed in
Table 15. each individual case).
5. flue walls meeting the provisions in the guidance to B3, c. Concrete bricks or blocks meeting BS 6073:Part 1
Diagram 39.
d. Products classified as non-combustible under BS 476:
6. construction forming car parks referred to in the Part 4
guidance to B3, paragraph 12.3.

Table A7 Use and definitions of materials of limited combustibility

References in AD.B guidance to situations where Definitions of material of limited combustibility
such materials should be used
1.0 stairs where there is provision in the guidance to B1 a. Any non-combustible material listed in Table A6.
for them to be constructed of materials of limited b. Any material of density 300/kg/m3 or more, which
combustibility (see 6.19). when tested to BS476:Part 11, does not flame and the
2.0 materials above a suspended ceiling meeting the rise in temperature on the furnace thermocouple is not
provisions in the guidance to B3, paragraph 10.13. more than 20°C.
3.0 reinforcement/support for fire-stopping referred to c. Any material with a non-combustible core at least
in the guidance to B3, see 11.13. 8mm thick having combustible facings (on one or
4.0 roof coverings meeting provisions: both sides) not more than 0.5mm thick. (Where a
a. in the guidance to B3, paragraph 10.11 or flame spread rating is specified, these materials
b. in the guidance to B4, Table 17 or must also meet the appropriate test requirements).
c. in the guidance to B4, Diagram 47.
5.0 roof deck meeting the provisions of the guidance to
B3, Diagram 28a.
6.0 class 0 materials meeting the provisions Appendix A,
paragraph 12(a).
7.0 ceiling tiles or panels of any fire protecting suspended
ceiling (Type D) in Table A3.
8.0 compartment walls and compartment floors in hospitals
referred to in paragraph 9.32.
9.0 insulation material in external wall construction Any of the materials (a), (b) or (c) above, or;
referred to in paragraph 13.7. d. Any material of density less than 300kg/m3, which
10. insulation above any fire-protecting suspended when tested to BS476:Part 11, does not flame for
ceiling (Type D) in Table A3. more than 10 seconds and the rise in temperature on
the centre (specimen) thermocouple is not more than
35°C and on the furnace thermocouple is not more
than 25°C.

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Appendix A PERFORMANCE OF MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES B

Table A8 Typical performance ratings of some generic materials and products
Rating Material or product
Class 0 1. any non-combustible material or material of limited combustibility. (Composite products listed
in Table A7 must meet test requirements given in Appendix A, paragraph 12(b)).
2. brickwork, blockwork, concrete and ceramic tiles.
3. plasterboard (painted or not with a PVC facing not more than 0.5mm thick) with or without an
air gap or fibrous or cellular insulating material behind.
4. woodwool cement slabs.
5. mineral fibre tiles or sheets with cement or resin binding.
Class 3 6. timber or plywood with a density more than 400kg/m3, painted or unpainted.
7. wood particle board or hardboard, either untreated or painted.
8. standard glass reinforced polyesters.
Notes:
1. Materials and products listed under Class 0 also meet Class 1. 3. The following materials and products may achieve the ratings
2. Timber products listed under Class 3 can be brought up to listed below. However, as the properties of different products
Class 1 with appropriate proprietary treatments. with the same generic description vary, the ratings of these
materials/products should be substantiated by test evidence.
Class 0 – aluminium faced fibre insulating board, flame
retardant decorative laminates on a calcium silicate board,
thick polycarbonate sheet, phenolic sheet and UPVC;
Class 1 – phenolic or melamine laminates on a calcium
silicate substrate and flame retardant decorative laminates
on a combustible substrate.

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B Appendix B FIRE DOORS

Appendix B
FIRE DOORS 6 Roller shutters across a means of escape
should only be released by a heat sensor, such
1 All fire doors should have the appropriate as a fusible link or electric heat detector, in the
performance given in Table B1. In the table, immediate vicinity of the door. Closure of shutters
doors are identified by their performance under in such locations should not be initiated by smoke
test to BS 476 Fire tests on building materials and detectors or a fire alarm system, unless the shutter
structures, Part 22 Methods for determination of is also intended to partially descend to form part
the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements of of a boundary to a smoke reservoir.
construction, in terms of integrity for a period of 7 Unless shown to be satisfactory when tested
minutes, eg FD30. A suffix (S) is added for doors as part of a fire door assembly, the essential
where restricted smoke leakage at ambient components of any hinge on which a fire door
temperatures is needed. The method of test is hung should be made entirely from materials
exposure is from each side of the door separately, having a melting point of at least 800°C.
except in the case of lift doors which are tested
from the landing side only. 8 Except for doors identified in paragraph 9 below,
all fire doors should be marked with the appropriate
2 All fire doors should be fitted with an automatic fire safety sign complying with BS 5499 Fire
self-closing device except for fire doors to safety signs, notices and graphic symbols, Part 1
cupboards and to service ducts which are Specification for fire safety signs, according to
normally kept locked shut. whether the door is:
Note: All rolling shutters should be capable of a. to be kept closed when not in use;
being opened and closed manually for firefighting
purposes (see Section 18, paragraph 18.13). b. to be kept locked when not in use; or
3 Where a self-closing device would be c. held open by an automatic release mechanism.
considered a hindrance to the normal approved Fire doors to cupboards and to service ducts
use of the building, self-closing fire doors may be should be marked on the outside; all other fire
held open by: doors on both sides.
a. a fusible link (but not if the door is fitted in an 9 The following fire doors are not required to
opening provided as a means of escape unless comply with paragraph 8 above:
it complies with paragraph 4 below); or
a. doors within dwelling houses;
b. an automatic release mechanism actuated by
an automatic fire detection & alarm system; or b. doors to and within flats or maisonettes;
c. a door closer delay device. c. bedroom doors in ‘Other-residential’ premises;
and
4 Two fire doors may be fitted in the same opening
so that the total fire resistance is the sum of their d. lift entrance doors.
individual fire resistances, provided that each door 10 Tables A1 and A2 set out the minimum
is capable of closing the opening. In such a case, periods of fire resistance for the elements of
if the opening is provided as a means of escape, structure to which performance of some doors is
both doors should be self-closing, but one of linked. Table A4 sets out limitations on the use of
them may be fitted with an automatic self-closing uninsulated glazing in fire doors.
device and be held open by a fusible link if the
other door is capable of being easily opened by 11 BS 8214 Code of practice for fire door
hand and has at least 30 minutes fire resistance. assemblies with non-metalic leaves gives
recommendations for the specification, design,
5 Because fire doors often do not provide any construction, installation and maintenance of fire
significant insulation, there should be some doors constructed with non-metallic door leaves.
limitation on the proportion of doorway openings
in compartment walls. Therefore no more than 12 Hardware used on fire doors can significantly
25% of the length of a compartment wall should affect performance in fire. Guidance is available
consist of door openings, unless the doors provide in “Code of Practice. Hardware essential to the
both integrity and insulation to the appropriate optimum performance of fire-resisting timber
level (see Appendix A, Table A2). doorsets” published by the Association of
Builders Hardware Manufacturers in 1993.

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Appendix B FIRE DOORS B

Table B1 Provisions for fire doors
Position of door Minimum fire resistance of door in terms
of integrity (minutes)(1)
1. In a compartment wall separating buildings As for the wall in which the door is fitted,
but a minimum of 60
2. In a compartment wall:
a. if it separates a flat or maisonette from a space in common use; FD 30S(2)
b. enclosing a protected shaft forming a stairway situated wholly or FD 30S(2)
partly above the adjoining ground in a building used for Flats,
Other Residential, Assembly and Recreation, or Office purposes;
c. enclosing a protected shaft forming a stairway not described in Half the period of fire resistance of the wall
(b) above; in which it is fitted, but 30 minimum and with
suffix S(2)
d. enclosing a protected shaft forming a lift or service shaft; Half the period of fire resistance of the wall
in which it is fitted, but 30 minimum
e. not described in (a), (b), (c) or (d) above. As for the wall it is fitted in, but add S(2) if
the door is used for progressive horizontal
evacuation under the guidance to B1
3. In a compartment floor As for the floor in which it is fitted
4. Forming part of the enclosures of:
a. a protected stairway (except where described in in item 9); or FD 30S(2)
b. a lift shaft (see paragraph 6.42b); FD 30
which does not form a protected shaft in 2(b), (c) or (d) above.
5. Forming part of the enclosures of:
a. a protected lobby approach (or protected corridor) to a stairway; FD 30S(2)
b. any other protected corridor; or FD 20S(2)
c. a protected lobby approach to a lift shaft (see paragraph 6.42). FD 30S(2)
6. Affording access to an external escape route FD 30
7. Sub-dividing:
a. corridors connecting alternative exits; FD 20S(2)
b. dead-end portions of corridors from the remainder of the corridor. FD 20S(2)
8. Any door:
a. within a cavity barrier; FD 30
b. between a dwellinghouse and a garage; FD 30
9. Any door:
a. forming part of the enclosures to a protected stairway in a single FD 20
family dwelling house;
b. forming part of the enclosure to a protected entrance hall or FD 20
protected landing in a flat or maisonette;
c. within any other fire-resisting construction in a dwelling not FD 20
described elsewhere in this table.

Notes:
1. To BS 476: Part 22 (or BS 476: Part 8 subject to paragraph 5 in Appendix A).
2. Unless pressurization techniques complying with BS 5588: Part 4 Fire precautions in the design, construction and use of buildings,
Code of practice for smoke control using pressure differentials are used, these doors should also have a leakage rate not exceeding
3m3/m/hour (head and jambs only) when tested at 25 Pa under BS 476 Fire tests on building materials and structures, Section 31.1
Methods for measuring smoke penetration through doorsets and shutter assemblies, Method of measurement under ambient
temperature conditions.

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B Appendix C METHODS OF MEASUREMENT

Appendix C
METHODS OF MEASUREMENT Diagram C2 Area
1 Some form of measurement is an integral part
if a lean-to roof
of many of the provisions in this document.
measure from
Diagrams C1 to C5 show how the various forms face to wall
of measurement should be made.
outer point of roof
Note: See Approved Document B1, paragraph at eaves or verge
[Link] for methods of measurement of occupant
capacity, travel distance and width of doors,
escape routes and stairs, which are specific to
SECTION
means of escape in case of fire.
1. Flat or monopitch

Diagram C1 Cubic capacity highest point

of roof slope
outer
point if a hipped
of roof roof
lowest
point of measure to
roof slope verge outer point
at eaves of roof as
SECTION ELEVATION base area
in every case measure the
volume contained by: 2. Double pitch
SECTION
a under surface of roof as
a. BUILDING
appropriate;
b upper surface of lowest
floor; roof sheeting
c the inner surface of
enclosing walls (when
there is not an enclosing rooflight
outside wall, measure
to the outermost edge
of the floor) and ignore 3. Rooflight, surface area: roofs and rooflights, in
internal walls and each case measure the visible area
partitions.

SECTION door or
b. PART OR COMPARTMENT OF A BUILDING window

PLAN

4. Floor area: room, garage, conservatory or

outbuilding, measure to inner surface of enclosing walls

when there is not

an outer enclosing
wall, measure to
the outmost edge
of the floor slab

PLAN

5. Floor area: storey, part or compartment, measure

to inner surface of enclosing walls and include internal
walls and partitions

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Appendix C METHODS OF MEASUREMENT B

Diagram C3 Height of building Diagram C4 Number of storeys
highest point To count the number of storeys in a building,
of roof slope or in a separated part of a building, count only at
the position which gives the greatest number and
equal mean roof level
exclude any basement storeys

lowest point building 3 storeys

of roof slope
height of 2
highest level
building
of ground
height of
adjacent to
building 1
outside walls
equal
mean ground level G

lowest level of
A. Double pitch roof
ground adjacent basement
to outside walls

separated part 3 storeys

highest point of highest point separated part 2 storeys
parapet (including of flat roof 2
coping) mean roof level compartment
height of wall height of
top level equal
part 1 part
of gutter

height A height B G

basement
mean ground level
Notes:
use height A or height B whichever is greater
In assembly buildings, a gallery is included as a storey,
B. Mansard type roof but not if it is a loading gallery, fly gallery, stage grid,
lighting bridge, or any gallery provided for similar purposes,
or for maintenance and repair.

highest point In other purpose group buildings, galleries are not counted
of roof slope as a storey.

equal mean roof level

equal
highest level of Diagram C5 Height of top storey
ground adjacent lowest height
to outside walls point of
in building
roof slope
equal height of top storey excludes
equal mean ground level roof-top plant areas and any
top storeys consisting exclusively
lowest level of ground of plant rooms
C. Flat or monopitch roof adjacent to outside walls

plant
roof

height of top
storey measured
from upper floor
surface of top
floor to ground
level on lowest
side of building

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B Appendix D PURPOSE GROUPS

Appendix D
PURPOSE GROUPS
1 Many of the provisions in this document are
related to the use of the building. The use
classifications are termed purpose groups and
represent different levels of hazard. They can
apply to a whole building, or (where a building is
compartmented) to a compartment in the building,
and the relevant purpose group should be taken
from the main use of the building or compartment.
2 Table D1 sets out the purpose group classification.
Note: It is only of relevance to this Approved
Document.

Ancillary and main uses

3 In some situations there may be more than one
use involved in a building or compartment, and in
certain circumstances it is appropriate to treat the
different use as belonging to a purpose group in
its own right. These situations are:
a. where the ancillary use is a flat or maisonette; or
b. where the building or compartment is more
than 280m2 in area and the ancillary use is
of an area that is more than a fifth of the total
floor area of the building or compartment; or
c. storage in a building or compartment of
purpose group 4 (shop or commercial), where
the storage amounts to more than 1/3rd of the
total floor area of the building or compartment
and the building or compartment is more than
280m2 in area.
4 Some buildings may have two or more main
uses that are not ancillary to one another. For
example offices over shops from which they are
independent. In such cases, each of the uses
should be considered as belonging to a purpose
group in its own right.
5 In other cases, and particularly in some large
buildings, there may be a complex mix of uses. In
such cases it is necessary to consider the possible
risk that one part of a complex may have on
another and special measures to reduce the risk
may be necessary.

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Appendix D PURPOSE GROUPS B

Table D1 Classification of purpose groups
Title Group Purpose for which the building or compartment of a building is intended to be used
Residential* 1(a) Flat or maisonette.
(dwellings)
1(b) Dwellinghouse which contains a habitable storey with a floor level which is more than 4.5m
above ground level.
1(c) Dwellinghouse which does not contain a habitable storey with a floor level which is more
than 4.5m above ground level.
Residential 2(a) Hospital, home, school or other similar establishment used as living accommodation for, or for
(Institiutional) the treatment, care or maintenance of persons suffering from disabilities due to illness or old age
or other physical or mental incapacity, or under the age of five years, or place of lawful detention,
where such persons sleep on the premises.
(Other) 2(b) Hotel, boarding house, residential college, hall of residence, hostel, and any other residential
purpose not described above.
Office 3 Offices or premises used for the purpose of administration, clerical work (including writing, book
keeping, sorting papers, filing, typing, duplicating, machine calculating, drawing and the editorial
preparation of matter for publication, police and fire service work), handling money (including
banking and building society work), and communications (including postal, telegraph and radio
communications) or radio, television, film, audio or video recording, or performance [not open to
the public] and their control.
Shop and 4 Shops or premises used for a retail trade or business (including the sale to members of the public
Commercial of food or drink for immediate consumption and retail by auction, self-selection and over-the-counter
wholesale trading, the business of lending books or periodicals for gain and the business of a
barber or hairdresser) and premises to which the public is invited to deliver or collect goods in
connection with their hire repair or other treatment, or (except in the case of repair of motor
vehicles) where they themselves may carry out such repairs or other treatments.
Assembly and 5 Place of assembly, entertainment or recreation; including bingo halls, broadcasting, recording
Recreation and film studios open to the public, casinos, dance halls; entertainment, conference, exhibition
and leisure centres; funfairs and amusement arcades; museums and art galleries; non-residential
clubs, theatres, cinemas and concert halls; educational establishments, dancing schools,
gymnasia, swimming pool buildings, riding schools, skating rinks, sports pavilions, sports stadia;
law courts; churches and other buildings of worship, crematoria; libraries open to the public,
non-residential day centres, clinics, health centres and surgeries; passenger stations and termini
for air, rail, road or sea travel; public toilets; zoos and menageries.
Industrial 6 Factories and other premises used for manufacturing, altering, repairing, cleaning, washing,
breaking-up, adapting or processing any article; generating power or slaughtering livestock.
Storage and other 7(a) Place for the storage or deposit of goods or materials [other than described under 7(b)] and any
non-residential+ building not within any of the purpose groups 1 to 6.
7(b) Car parks designed to admit and accommodate only cars, motorcycles and passenger or light
goods vehicles weighing no more than 2500 kg gross.

Notes:
This table only applies to Part B.
* Includes any surgeries, consulting rooms, offices or other accommodation, not exceeding 50m2 in total, forming part of a dwelling
and used by an occupant of the dwelling in a professional or business capacity.
+ A detached garage not more than 40m2 in area is included in purpose group 1(c); as is a detached open carport of not more than
40m2, or a detached building which consists of a garage and open carport where neither the garage nor open carport exceeds
40m2 in area.

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B Appendix E DEFINITIONS
Appendix E
DEFINITIONS Basement storey A storey with a floor which at
some point is more than 1200mm below the
Note: Except for the items marked * (which are highest level of ground adjacent to the outside
from the Building Regulations), these definitions walls. (However, see Appendix A, Table A2, for
apply only to Part B. situations where the storey is considered to be
a basement only because of a sloping site).
Access room A room through which passes the
only escape route from an inner room. Boundary The boundary of the land belonging
to the building, or where the land abuts a road,
Accommodation stair A stair, additional to that railway, canal or river, the centreline of that road,
or those required for escape purposes, provided railway, canal or river. (See Diagram 41).
for the convenience of occupants.
* Building Any permanent or temporary building
Alternative escape routes Escape routes but not any other kind of structure or erection. A
sufficiently separated by either direction and reference to a building includes a reference to part
space, or by fire-resisting construction, to ensure of a building.
that one is still available should the other be
affected by fire. Building Control Body A term used to include
both Local Authority Building Control and
Note: A second stair, balcony or flat roof which Approved Inspectors.
enables a person to reach a place free from
danger from fire, is considered an alternative Cavity barrier A construction, other than a smoke
escape route for the purposes of a dwelling house. curtain, provided to close a concealed space
against penetration of smoke or flame, or provided
Alternative exit One of two or more exits, each to restrict the movement of smoke or flame within
of which is separate from the other. such a space.

Appliance ventilation duct A duct provided to Ceiling A part of a building which encloses and
convey combustion air to a gas appliance. is exposed overhead in a room, protected shaft
or circulation space. (The soffit of a rooflight is
Atrium (plural atria) A space within a building, included as part of the surface of the ceiling, but
not necessarily vertically aligned, passing through not the frame. An upstand below a rooflight would
one or more structural floors. be considered as a wall).
Note: Enclosed lift wells, enclosed escalator Circulation space A space (including a protected
wells, building services ducts and stairways stairway) mainly used as a means of access
are not classified as atria. between a room and an exit from the building
or compartment.
Automatic release mechanism A device which will
allow a door held open by it to close automatically Class 0 A product performance classification for
in the event of each or any one of the following: wall and ceiling linings. The relevant test criteria
are set out in Appendix A, paragraph 12.
a. detection of smoke by automatic apparatus
suitable in nature, quality and location; Common balcony A walkway, open to the air
b. operation of a hand operated switch fitted in on one or more sides, forming part of the escape
a suitable position; route from more than one flat or maisonette.
c. failure of electricity supply to the device, Common stair An escape stair serving more than
apparatus or switch; one flat or maisonette.
d. operation of the fire alarm system if any.
Compartment (fire) A building or part of a
Automatic self-closing device A device which is building, comprising one or more rooms, spaces
capable of closing the door from any angle and or storeys, constructed to prevent the spread of
against any latch fitted to the door. fire to or from another part of the same building,
or an adjoining building. (A roof space above the
Note: Rising butt hinges which do not meet top storey of a compartment is included in that
the above criteria are acceptable where the compartment). (See also “Separated part”).
door is:
a. to (or within) a dwelling; Compartment wall or floor A fire-resisting
wall/floor used in the separation of one fire
b. between a dwelling house and its garage; or compartment from another. (Constructional
c. in a cavity barrier. provisions are given in Section 9)

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Appendix E DEFINITIONS B
Concealed space or cavity A space enclosed European Technical Approval A favourable
by elements of a building (including a suspended technical assessment of the fitness for use of a
ceiling) or contained within an element, but not construction product for an intended use, issued
a room, cupboard, circulation space, protected for the purposes of the Construction Products
shaft or space within a flue, chute, duct, pipe Directive by a body authorised by a member State
or conduit. to issue European technical approvals for those
purposes and notified by that member State to
Corridor access A design of a building containing the European Commission.
flats in which each dwelling is approached via a
common horizontal internal access or circulation European Technical Approvals Issuing body
space which may include a common entrance hall. A body notified under article 10 of the
Construction Products Directive. The details of
Dead-end Area from which escape is possible in these institutions are published in the “C” series
one direction only. of the Official Journal of the European Communities.
(At the present time the listing for the United
Direct distance The shortest distance from any Kingdom is the British Board of Agrément and
point within the floor area, measured within the WIMLAS Ltd. An up to date listing can be found
external enclosures of the building, to the nearest on the Building Regulations pages of the DETR
storey exit ignoring walls, partitions and fittings, Website at [Link]
other than the enclosing walls/ partitions to
protected stairways. Evacuation lift A lift that may be used for the
evacuation of disabled people in a fire.
Dwelling A unit of residential accommodation
occupied (whether or not as a sole or main residence): External wall (or side of a building) includes a
part of a roof pitched at an angle of more than 70°
a. by a single person or by people living together
to the horizontal, if that part of the roof adjoins a
as a family; or
space within the building to which persons have
b. by not more than 6 residents living together access (but not access only for repair or
as a single household, including a household maintenance).
where care is provided for residents.
Final exit The termination of an escape route from
* Dwelling-house does not include a flat or a a building giving direct access to a street,
building containing a flat. passageway, walkway or open space, and sited to
ensure the rapid dispersal of persons from the
Element of structure vicinity of a building so that they are no longer in
danger from fire and/or smoke.
a. a member forming part of the structural frame
of a building or any other beam or column; Note: Windows are not acceptable as final exits.
b. a loadbearing wall or loadbearing part of a
wall; Fire door A door or shutter, provided for the
passage of persons, air or objects, which together
c. a floor;
with its frame and furniture as installed in a
d. a gallery (but not a loading gallery, fly gallery, building, is intended (when closed) to resist the
stage grid, lighting bridge, or any gallery passage of fire and/or gaseous products of
provided for similar purposes or for combustion, and is capable of meeting specified
maintenance and repair); performance criteria to those ends. (It may have
one or more leaves, and the term includes a cover
e. an external wall; and
or other form of protection to an opening in a fire-
f. a compartment wall (including a wall common resisting wall or floor, or in a structure surrounding
to two or more buildings). (However, see the a protected shaft).
guidance to B3, paragraph 8.4, for exclusions
from the provisions for elements of structure). Firefighting lift A lift designed to have additional
protection, with controls that enable it to be used
Emergency lighting Lighting provided for use under the direct control of the fire service in
when the supply to the normal lighting fails. fighting a fire. (See Sections 16-19).

Escape lighting That part of the emergency Firefighting lobby A protected lobby providing
lighting which is provided to ensure that the access from a firefighting stair to the
escape route is illuminated at all material times. accommodation area and to any associated
firefighting lift.
Escape route Route forming that part of the means
of escape from any point in a building to a final exit. Firefighting shaft A protected enclosure
containing a firefighting stair, firefighting lobbies
and, if provided, a firefighting lift, together with its
machine room.

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B Appendix E DEFINITIONS
Firefighting stair A protected stairway Notional boundary A boundary presumed to
communicating with the accommodation area exist between buildings on the same site (see
only through a firefighting lobby. Section 14, Diagram 42). The concept is applied
only to buildings in the residential and the
Fire-resisting (fire resistance) The ability of a assembly and recreation purpose groups.
component or construction of a building to satisfy
for a stated period of time, some or all of the Occupancy type A purpose group identified in
appropriate criteria specified in the relevant Appendix D.
Part of BS 476.
Open spatial planning The internal arrangement
Fire separating element A compartment wall, of a building in which more than one storey or
compartment floor, cavity barrier and construction level is contained in one undivided volume,
enclosing a protected escape route and/or a eg split-level floors. For the purposes of this
place of special fire hazard. document there is a distinction between open
spatial planning and an atrium space.
Fire stop A seal provided to close an imperfection
of fit or design tolerance between elements or Perimeter (of building) The maximum aggregate
components, to restrict the passage of fire plan perimeter, found by vertical projection onto a
and smoke. horizontal plane (see Section 17, Diagram 48).

* Flat A separate and self-contained premises Pipe (for the purposes of Section 11) – includes
constructed or adapted for use for residential pipe fittings and accessories; and excludes a flue
purposes and forming part of a building from pipe and a pipe used for ventilating purposes
some other part of which it is divided horizontally. (other than a ventilating pipe for an above around
drainage system).
Gallery A floor which is less than one-half of the
area of the space into which it projects. Places of special fire hazard Oil-filled transformer
and switch gear rooms, boiler rooms, storage
Habitable room A room used, or intended to be space for fuel or other highly flammable substances,
used, for dwelling purposes (including for the and rooms housing a fixed internal combustion
purposes of Part B, a kitchen, but not a bathroom). engine and (additionally in schools) laboratories,
technology rooms with open heat sources,
Height (of a building or storey for the purposes of kitchens and stores for PE mats or chemicals.
Part B) Height of a building is measured as shown
in Appendix C, Diagram C3, and height of the floor Platform floor (access or raised floor) A floor
of the a top storey above ground is measured as supported by a structural floor, but with an
shown in Appendix C, Diagram C5. intervening concealed space which is intended
to house services.
Inner room Room from which escape is
possible only by passing through another room Protected circuit An electrical circuit protected
(the access room). against fire.

Maisonette means a ‘Flat’ on more than one level. Protected corridor/lobby A corridor or lobby
which is adequately protected from fire in
Material of limited combustibility A material adjoining accommodation by fire-resisting
performance specification that includes non- construction.
combustible materials, and for which the relevant
test criteria are set out in Appendix A, paragraph 8. Protected entrance hall/landing A circulation
area consisting of a hall or space in a dwelling,
Means of escape Structural means whereby [in enclosed with fire-resisting construction (other than
the event of fire] a safe route or routes is or are any part which is an external wall of a building).
provided for persons to travel from any point in a
building to a place of safety. Protected shaft A shaft which enables persons,
air or objects to pass from one compartment to
Measurement Area, cubic capacity, height of a another, and which is enclosed with fire-resisting
building and number of storeys, see Appendix C, construction.
Diagrams C1 to C5; occupant capacity, travel
distance, and width of a doorway, escape route Protected stairway A stair discharging through a
and a stair, see paragraph [Link]. final exit to a place of safety (including any exit
passageway between the foot of the stair and the
Non-combustible material The highest level of final exit) that is adequately enclosed with fire-
reaction to fire performance. The relevant test resisting construction.
criteria are set out in Appendix A, paragraph 7.
Purpose group A classification of a building
according to the purpose to which it is intended
to be put. See Appendix D, Table D1.

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Appendix E DEFINITIONS B
Relevant boundary The boundary which the side Suspended ceiling (fire-protecting) A ceiling
of the building faces, (and/or coincides with) and suspended below a floor, which contributes to the
which is parallel, or at an angle of not more than fire resistance of the floor. Appendix A, Table A3,
80°, to the side of the building (see Section 14 classifies different types of suspended ceiling.
Diagram 41). A notional boundary can be a
relevant boundary. Technical specification A standard or a European
Technical Approval Guide. It is the document
Rooflight A dome light, lantern light, skylight, against which compliance can be shown in the
ridge light, glazed barrel vault or other element case of a standard and against which an
intended to admit daylight through a roof. assessment is made to deliver the European
technical approval.
Room (for the purposes of B2) An enclosed
space within a building that is not used solely Thermoplastic material See Appendix A,
as a circulation space. (The term includes not only paragraph 16.
conventional rooms, but also cupboards that are
not fittings, and large spaces such as warehouses, Travel distance (unless otherwise specified,
and auditoria. The term does not include voids eg as in the case of flats) The actual distance to
such as ducts, ceiling voids and roof spaces). be travelled by a person from any point within the
floor area to the nearest storey exit, having regard
Separated part (of a building) A form of to the layout of walls, partitions and fittings.
compartmentation in which a part of a building is
separated from another part of the same building Unprotected area In relation to a side or external
by a compartment wall. The wall runs the full height wall of a building means:
of the part, and is in one vertical plane. (See
a. window, door or other opening; and
paragraph 9.24, and Appendix C, Diagram C4).
Note: Windows that are not openable and are
Single storey building A building consisting of a designed and glazed to provide the necessary
ground storey only. (A separated part which consists level of fire resistance, and recessed car parking
of a ground storey only, with a roof to which areas shown in Diagram E1, need not be
access is only provided for repair or maintenance, regarded as an unprotected area.
may be treated as a single storey building).
b. any part of the external wall which has less
Basements are not included in counting the
than the relevant fire resistance set out in
number of storeys in a building (see Appendix C).
Section 13; and
Site (of a building) is the land occupied by c. any part of the external wall which has
the building, up to the boundaries with land in combustible material more than 1mm thick
other ownership. attached or applied to its external face,
whether for cladding or any other purpose.
Smoke alarm A device containing within one (Combustible material in this context is any
housing all the components, except possibly the material which does not have a Class 0 rating).
energy source, necessary for detecting smoke
and giving an audible alarm.
Diagram E1 Recessed car
Storey includes: parking areas
a. any gallery in an assembly building (Purpose
Group 5); and
b. any gallery in any other type of building if its
area is more than half that of the space into
which it projects; and
c. a roof, unless it is accessible only for
maintenance and repair.

Storey exit A final exit, or a doorway giving direct car space

access into a protected stairway, firefighting
lobby, or external escape route. Note: The parking area should be:
Note: A door in a compartment wall in an a open fronted
institutional building is considered as a storey b separated from the remainder of the building by a
exit for the purposes of B1 if the building is compartment wall(s) and floor(s) having not less than
planned for progressive horizontal evacuation, the period of fire resistance specified in Table A2 in
Appendix A.
see paragraph 4.30.

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B Appendix F INSULATING CORE PANELS

Appendix F
FIRE BEHAVIOUR OF INSULATING Therefore once it is involved, either directly or
indirectly in a fire, the panel will have lost most of
CORE PANELS USED FOR its structural integrity. The stability of the system
INTERNAL STRUCTURES will then depend on the residual structural strength
of the non-exposed facing, the joint between
Introduction panels and the fixing system.
1 Insulating core panel systems are used for Most jointing or fixing systems for these systems
external cladding as well as for internal structures. have an extremely limited structural integrity
However, whilst both types of panel system have performance in fire conditions. If the fire starts to
unique fire behaviour characteristics, it is those heat up the support fixings or structure to which
used for internal structures that can present they are attached, then there is a real chance of
particular problems with regard to fire spread. total collapse of the panel system.
The most common use of insulating core panels, The insulating nature of these panels, together
when used for internal structures, is to provide an with their sealed joints, means that fire can spread
enclosure in which a chilled or sub zero environment behind the panels, hidden from the occupants of
can be generated for the production, preservation, occupied rooms/spaces.
storage and distribution of perishable foodstuffs.
This can prove to be a particular problem to fire
However this type of construction is also used in
fighters as, due to the insulating properties of the
many other applications, particularly where the
cores, it may not be possible to track the spread
maintenance of a hygienic environment is essential.
of fire, even using infra red detection equipment.
These panels typically consist of an inner core This difficulty, together with that of controlling the
sandwiched between, and bonded to, a membrane fire spread within and behind the panels, is likely
such as facing sheets of galvanised steel, often to have a detrimental effect on the performance
bonded with a PVC facing for hygiene purposes. of the fixing systems, potentially leading to their
The panels are then formed into a structure by complete and unexpected collapse, together with
jointing systems, usually designed to provide an any associated equipment.
insulating and hygienic performance. The panel
structure can be free standing, but is usually Fire fighting
attached to the building structure by lightweight
fixings and hangers. 3 When compared with other types of
construction techniques, these panel systems
The most common forms of insulation in present therefore provide a unique combination of
use are: problems for fire fighters, including:
• expanded polystyrene, • hidden fire spread within the panels,
• extruded polystyrene, • production of large quantities of black toxic
• polyurethane, smoke, and

• mineral fibre. • rapid fire spread leading to flashover.

However panels with the following core materials These three characteristics are common to
are also in use: both polyurethane and polystyrene cored panels,
although the rate of fire spread in polyurethane
• polyisocyanurate, cores is significantly less than that of polystyrene
• modified phenolic. cores, especially when any external heat source
is removed.
Fire behaviour of the core materials and In addition, irrespective of the type of panel core,
fixing systems all systems are susceptible to:
2 The degradation of polymeric materials can be • delamination of the steel facing,
expected when exposed to radiated/conducted • collapse of the system,
heat from a fire, with the resulting production of
large quantities of smoke. • hidden fire spread behind the system.
It is recognised that the potential for problems
Design recommendations
in fires involving mineral fibre cores is less than
those for polymeric core materials. 4 To identify the appropriate solution, a risk
assessment approach should be adopted. This
In addition, irrespective of the type of core material,
would involve identifying the potential fire risk
the panel, when exposed to the high temperatures
within the enclosures formed by the panel systems
of a developed fire, will tend to delaminate between
and then adopting one or more of the following at
the facing and core material, due to a combination
the design stage:
of expansion of the membrane and softening of
the bond line.

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Appendix F INSULATING CORE PANELS B

• removing the risk, a. Insulating envelopes, support systems, and
supporting structure should be designed
• separating the risk from the panels by an
to allow the envelope to remain structurally
appropriate distance,
stable by alternative means such as catenary
• providing a fire suppression system for the risk, action following failure of the bond line between
insulant core and facing materials. This will
• providing a fire suppression system for the
typically require positive attachment of the
enclosure,
lower faces of the insulant panels to supports.
• providing fire-resisting panels,
b. The building superstructure, together with any
• specifying appropriate materials/fixing and elements providing support to the insulating
jointing systems. envelope, should be protected to prevent early
collapse of the structure or the envelope.
In summary the performance of the building
structure, including the insulating envelope, the Note: Irrespective of the type of panel provided,
superstructure, the substructure etc, must be it will remain necessary to ensure that the
considered in relation to their performance in supplementary support method supporting the
the event of a fire. panels remains stable for an appropriate time
period under fire conditions. It is not practical
Specifying panel core materials to fire protect light gauge steel members such
as purlins and sheeting rails which provide
5 Where at all possible the specification of panels stability to building superstructures and these
with core materials appropriate to the application may be compromised at an early stage of a
will help ensure an acceptable level of performance fire. Supplementary fire protected heavier gauge
for panel systems, when involved in fire conditions. steelwork members could be provided at wider
The following are examples in the provision of intervals than purlins to provide restraint in the
core materials which may be appropriate to the event of a fire.
application concerned. c. In designated high risk areas, consideration
Mineral fibre cores: should be given to incorporating non-combustible
insulant cored panels into wall and ceiling
• cooking areas, construction at intervals, or incorporating
• hot areas, strips of non-combustible material into
specified wall and ceiling panels, in order to
• bakeries, provide a barrier to fire propagation through
• fire breaks in combustible panels, the insulant.
• fire stop panels, d. Correct detailing of the insulating envelope
should ensure that the combustible insulant is
• general fire protection. fully encapsulated by non-combustible facing
All cores: materials which remain in place during a fire.
• chill stores, e. The panels should incorporate pre-finished
and sealed areas for penetration of services.
• cold stores,
• blast freezers, General
• food factories, 7 Panels or panel systems should not be used to
support machinery or other permanent loads.
• clean rooms.
Any cavity created by the arrangement of panels,
Note: Core materials may be used in other
their supporting structure or other building elements
circumstances where a risk assessment has been
should be provided with suitable cavity barriers.
made and other appropriate fire precautions have
been put in place. 8 Examples of possible solutions and general
guidance on insulating core panels construction
Specifying materials/fixing and can be found in Design, construction, specification
jointing systems and fire management of insulated envelopes for
temperature controlled environments published
6 The following are methods by which the by the International Association of Cold Storage
stability of panel systems may be improved in Contractors (European Division).
the event of a fire, although they may not all be
appropriate in every case. Of particular relevance is Chapter 8 of the document
which gives guidance on the design, construction
In addition the details of construction of the and management of insulated structures. Whilst the
insulating envelope should, particularly in relation document is primarily intended for use in relation to
to combustible insulant cores, prevent the core cold storage environments, the guidance, particularly
materials from becoming exposed to the fire and in Chapter 8, is considered to be appropriate for
contributing to the fire load. most insulating core panel applications.

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B Appendix G STANDARDS
Appendix G
STANDARDS REFERRED TO BS 5839: Fire detection and alarm systems
for buildings:
General Introduction Part 1: 1988 Code of practice for system design,
installation and servicing.
BS 5588: Fire precautions in the design, Part 2: 1983 Specification for manual call points
construction and use of buildings: Part 6: 1995 Code of practice for the design and
Part 7: 1997 Code of practice for the incorporation installation of fire detection and alarm systems
of atria in buildings. in dwellings.
Part 10: 1991 Code of practice for shopping Part 8: 1998 Code of practice for the design,
complexes. installation and servicing of voice alarm systems.
DD 240: 1997 Fire safety engineering in buildings. BS 5906: 1980 Code of practice for storage and
on-site treatment of solid waste from buildings.
Approved Document B1
BS 6387: 1994 Specification for performance
BS 5266: Emergency lighting: requirements for cables required to maintain
Part 1: 1988 Code of practice for the emergency circuit integrity under fire conditions.
lighting of premises other than cinemas and certain
other specified premises used for entertainment. CP 1007: 1955 Maintained lighting for cinemas.

BS 5306: Fire extinguishing installations and Approved Document B2

equipment on premises:
Part 2: 1990 Specification for sprinkler systems. BS 476: Fire tests on building materials
and structures.
BS 5395: Stairs, ladders and walkways: Part 4: 1970 (1984) Non-combustibility test
Part 2: 1984 Code of practice for the design of for materials.
helical and spiral stairs Amendment slips
Amendment slip 1: AMD 2483,
1: AMD 6076 2: AMD 4390.
BS 5446: Components of automatic fire alarm Part 6: 1981 Method of test for fire propagation
systems for residential premises: for products.
Part 1: 1990 Specification for self-contained Part 6: 1989 Method of test for fire propagation
smoke alarms and point-type smoke detectors. for products.
Part 7: 1971 Surface spread of flame test
BS 5449: Fire safety signs, notices and graphic for materials.
symbols: Part 7: 1987 Method for classification of the
Part 1: 1990 Specification for fire safety signs. surface spread of flame of products.
BS 5588: Fire precautions in the design, Amendment slip
construction and use of buildings: 1: AMD 6249
Part 0: 1996 Guide to fire safety codes of practice Part 7: 1997 Method of test to determine the
for particular premises/applications. classification of the surface spread of flame
Part 1: 1990 Code of practice for residential of products.
buildings Part 11: 1982 Method for assessing the heat
Part 4: 1998 Code of practice for smoke control emission from building materials.
using pressure differentials. BS 6661: 1986 Guide for design, construction and
Part 5: 1991 Code of practice for firefighting stairs maintenance of single-skin air supported structures.
and lifts.
Part 6: 1991 Code of practice for places of BS 7157: 1989 Method of test for ignitability of
assembly. fabrics used in the construction of large tented
Part 7: 1997 Code of practice for the incorporation structures.
of atria in buildings.
Part 8: 1999 Code of practice for means of escape Approved Document B3
for disabled people. BS 4514: 1983 Specification for unplasticized PVC
Part 9: 1989 Code of practice for ventilation and soil and ventilating pipes, fittings and accessories.
air conditioning ductwork. Amendment slips
Part 10: 1991 Code of practice for shopping 1: AMD 4517
complexes. 2: AMD 5584
Part 11: 1997 Code of practice for shops, offices,
industrial, storage and other similar buildings. BS 5255: 1989 Specification for thermoplastics
waste pipe and fittings.
BS 5720: 1979 Code of practice for mechanical
ventilation and air conditioning in buildings.

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Appendix G STANDARDS B
BS 5306: Fire extinguishing installations and BS 5588: Fire precautions in the design,
equipment on premises: construction and use of buildings:
Part 2: 1990 Specification for sprinkler systems. Part 5: 1991 Code of practice for firefighting stairs
and lifts.
BS 5588: Fire precautions in the design,
Part 10: 1991 Code of practice for shopping
construction and use of buildings:
complexes.
Part 5: 1991 Code of practice for firefighting
stairs and lifts. BS 5839: Fire detection and alarm systems
Part 7: 1997 Code of practice for the incorporation for buildings:
of atria in buildings. Part 1: 1988 Code of practice for system design,
Part 9: 1989 Code of practice for ventilation and installation and servicing.
air conditioning ductwork.
BS 7346: Components for smoke and heat
Part 10: 1991 Code of practice for shopping
control systems:
complexes.
Part 2: 1990 Specification for powered smoke and
BS 5839: Fire detection and alarm systems heat exhaust ventilators
for buildings:
Part 1: 1988 Code of practice for system design, Appendix A
installation and servicing.
BS 476: Fire tests on building materials
BS 7346: Components for smoke and heat and structures:
control systems: Part 3: 1958 External fire exposure roof tests.
Part 2: 1990 Specification for powered smoke and Part 4: 1970 (1984) Non-combustibility test
heat exhaust ventilators for materials.
BS 8313: 1989 Code of practice for accommodation Amendment slips
of building services in ducts 1: AMD 2483,
2: AMD 4390.
Part 6: 1981 Method of test for fire propagation
Approved Document B4 for products.
BS 476: Fire tests on building materials Part 6: 1989 Method of test for fire propagation
and structures: for products.
Part 3: 1958 External fire exposure roof tests. Part 7: 1971 Surface spread of flame tests
Part 6: 1981 Method of test for fire propagation for materials.
for products. Part 7: 1987 Method for classification of the
Part 6: 1989 Method of test for fire propagation surface spread of flame of products.
for products. Amendment slip
Part 7: 1971 Surface spread of flame tests 1: AMD 6249.
for materials. Part 7: 1997 Method of test to determine the
Part 7: 1987 Method for classification of the classification of the surface spread of flame
surface spread of flame of products. of products.
Amendment slip Part 8: 1972 Test methods and criteria for the fire
1: AMD 6249. resistance of elements of building construction.
Part 7: 1997 Method of test to determine the Amendment slips
classification of the surface spread of flame 1: AMD 1873,
of products. 2: AMD 3816,
3: AMD 4822.
BS 5306: Fire extinguishing installations and
Part 11: 1982 Method for assessing the heat
equipment on premises:
emission from building products.
Part 2: 1990 Specification for sprinkler systems.
Part 20: 1987 Method for determination of the
BS 5588: Fire precautions in the design, fire resistance of elements of construction
construction and use of buildings (general principles).
Part 5: 1991 Code of practice for firefighting stairs Amendment slip
and lifts. 1: AMD 6487.
Part 7: 1997 Code of practice for the incorporation Part 21: 1987 Methods for determination of
of atria in buildings. the fire resistance of loadbearing elements
of construction.
Approved Document B5 Part 22: 1987 Methods for determination of
the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements
BS 5306: Fire extinguishing installations and of construction.
equipment on premises: Part 23: 1987 Methods for determination of the
Part 1: 1976 (1988) Hydrant systems, hose reels contribution of components to the fire resistance
and foam inlets. of a structure.
Amendment slips Part 24: 1987 Method for determination of the fire
1: AMD 4649, resistance of ventilation ducts.
2: AMD 5766.
Part 2: 1990 Specification for sprinkler systems. BS 2782: 1970 Methods of testing plastics:
Part 5: Miscellaneous methods: Method 508A.
Rate of burning (Laboratory method).

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B Appendix G STANDARDS
BS 2782: Methods of testing plastics.
Part 1: Thermal properties:
Methods 120A to 120E: 1990 Determination of the
Vicat softening temperature of thermoplastics.
BS 5306: Fire extinguishing installations and
equipment on premises:
Part 2: 1990 Specification for sprinkler systems.
BS 5438: 1989 Methods of test for flammability of
textile fabrics when subjected to a small igniting
flame applied to the face or bottom edge of
vertically oriented specimens, Test 2.
BS 5588: Fire precautions in the design,
construction and use of buildings
Part 7: 1997 Code of practice for the incorporation
of atria in buildings.
Part 8: 1999 Code of practice for means of escape
for disabled people.
BS 5867: Specification for fabrics for curtains
and drapes:
Part 2: 1980 Flammability requirements.
Amendment slip
1: AMD 4319.
BS 6073: Precast concrete masonry units:
Part 1: 1981 Specification for precast concrete
masonry units.
Amendment slips
1: AMD 3944,
2: AMD 4462.
BS 6336: 1998 Guide to development and presentation
of fire tests and their use in hazard assessment.
PD 6520: 1988 Guide to fire test methods for
building materials and elements of construction.

Appendix B
BS 476: Fire tests on building materials
and structures:
Part 8: 1972 Test methods and criteria for the fire
resistance of elements of building construction.
Amendment slips
1: AMD 1873,
2: AMD 3816,
3: AMD 4822.
Part 22: 1987 Methods for determination of
the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements
of construction.
Part 31: Methods for measuring smoke penetration
through doorsets and shutter assemblies:
Section 31.1: 1983 Measurement under ambient
temperature conditions.
Amendment slip
1. AMD 8366.
BS 5499: Fire safety signs, notices and
graphic symbols:
Part 1: 1990 Specification for fire safety signs.
BS 5588: Fire precautions in the design,
construction and use of buildings:
Part 4: 1998 Code of practice for smoke control
using pressure differentials.
BS 8214: 1990 Code of practice for fire door
assemblies with non-metallic leaves.

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Appendix G OTHER PUBLICATIONS B

OTHER PUBLICATIONS Firecode. HTM 88. Guide to fire precautions in
NHS housing in the community for mentally
REFERRED TO handicapped (or mentally ill) people. (DHSS)
HMSO, 1986.
Use of guidance Fire Precautions Act 1971. Guide to fire precautions
Construction Products Directive (CPD). The in existing places of work that require a fire
Council Directive reference 89/106/EEC dated 21 certificate. Factories, offices, shops and railway
December 1988 and published in the Official premises. (Home Office/Scottish Office) HMSO, 1993.
Journal of the European Communities No L40/12
dated 11.2.89. The CE Marking Directive Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997,
(93/68/EEC) amends the CPD. (SI 1997 No 1840) as amended by the Fire
Precautions (Workplace) (Amendment)
Construction fire safety, Construction Information Regulations 1999.
Sheet No 51.
Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations
Fire safety in construction work, HSG 168 1998, SI 1998 No 2451.
(ISBN 0-7176-1332-1).
Guide to fire precautions in existing places
Workplace health, safety and welfare. The Workplace of entertainment and like premises. (Home Office/
(Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, Scottish Home and Health Department) HMSO, 1990.
Approved Code of Practice and Guidance;
The Health and Safety Commission, L24; Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds. (Department
HMSO 1992; ISBN 0-11-886333-9. of National Heritage/Scottish Office) HMSO, 1997.
Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996, SI 1996 No 825
General Introduction
Safety signs and signals. The Health and Safety
Crown Fire Standards. Property Advisers to the (Safety signs and signals) Regulations 1996. Guidance
Civil Estate (PACE). (Available from Corporate on Regulations. (HSE, L64). HSE Books,1996.
Documents Services, Savile House, Trinity Arcade,
Leeds, LS1 6QW) Welsh Office Circular 25/92. Local Government and
Housing Act 1989. Houses in multiple occupation:
Firecode. HTM 81. Fire precautions in new standards of fitness. Welsh Office, 1992.
hospitals. (NHS Estates) HMSO, 1996.
Welsh Office Circular 55/93. Houses in multiple
LPC Design guide for the fire protection of occupation. Guidance on management strategies.
buildings. Loss Prevention Council, 1996. Welsh Office, 1993.

Approved Document B1 Approved Document B2

The Building Regulations 1991 (DETR/Welsh The Building Regulations 1991. Approved
Office) HMSO Document N, Glazing – safety in relation to impact,
Approved Document K, Protection from falling, opening and cleaning (DETR/Welsh Office) HMSO.
collision and impact;
Approved Document M, Access and facilities Fire safety of PTFE-based materials used in
for disabled people; buildings. BR 274, BRE 1994.
Approved Document N, Glazing – safety in
relation to impact, opening and cleaning Approved Document B3
Building Regulation and Fire Safety – Procedural The Building Regulations 1991(DETR/Welsh
Guidance. (DOE/Home Office/Welsh Office 1992) Office) HMSO.
Approved Document F, Ventilation
Design methodologies for smoke and heat Approved Document J, Combustion appliances
exhaust ventilation. BR 368, BRE 1999. (Revision and fuel storage
of Design principles for smoke ventilation in
enclosed shopping centres. BR 186, BRE, 1990.) Design methodologies for smoke and heat
exhaust ventilation. BR 368, BRE 1999. (Revision
DOE Circular 12/92. Houses in multiple occupation. of Design principles for smoke ventilation in
Guidance to local housing authorities on standards enclosed shopping centres. BR 186, BRE, 1990.)
of fitness under section 352 of the Housing Act
1985. HMSO, 1992. Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998,
SI 1998 No 2451.
DOE Circular 12/93. Houses in multiple occupation.
Guidance to local housing authorities on managing Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996, SI 1996 No 825
the stock in their area. HMSO, 1993.
Draft guide to fire precautions in existing residential
care premises. Home Office/Scottish Home and
Health Department, 1983.
Firecode. HTM 81. Fire precautions in new
hospitals. (NHS Estates) HMSO, 1996.

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B Appendix G OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Approved Document B4
The Building Regulations 1991(DETR/Welsh Office)
HMSO. Approved Document J, Combustion
appliances and fuel storage
Assessing the fire performance of external
cladding systems: a test method, BRE Fire Note 9
(BRE, 1999).
External fire spread: Building separation and
boundary distances. BR 187, BRE, 1991.
Fire performance of external thermal insulation for
walls of multi-storey buildings. BR 135, BRE 1988.
Fire and steel construction: The behaviour of
steel portal frames in boundary conditions, 1990.
2nd edition (available from the Steel Construction
Institute, Silwood Park, Ascot, Berks, SL5 7QN).
Heat radiation from fires and building separation.
Fire Research Technical Paper 5. HMSO, 1963.
Thatched buildings. New properties and extensions
[the “Dorset Model”] (can be found on
[Link];
email: info@[Link])

Appendix A
Fire protection for structural steel in buildings
(Second edition – revised). ASFP/SCI/FTSG, 1992
(available from the ASFP, Association House, 235
Ash Road, Aldershot, Hants GU12 4DD and the
Steel Construction Institute, Silwood Park, Ascot,
Berks SL5 7QN ).
Guidelines for the construction of fire-resisting
structural elements. BR 128, BRE, 1988.
Increasing the fire resistance of existing timber
floors. BRE Digest 208, 1988.

Appendix B
Code of practice. Hardware essential to the
optimum performance of fire-resisting timber
doorsets. Association of Builders Hardware
Manufacturers, 1993. (Available from the ABHM,
42 Heath Street, Tamworth, Staffs B79 7JH.)

Appendix F
Design, construction, specification and fire
management of insulated envelopes for
temperature controlled environments.
The International Association of Cold Storage
Contractors (European Division), 1999.
(Available from the IACSC, Downmill Road,
Bracknell, Berks RG12 1GH.)

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INDEX B
Index
A Approved documents
page 5
Automatic opening vents
Definition appendix E
Above ground drainage Architectural liaison oflicers Escape routes for flats or maisonettes
See Drainage Source of advice on security [Link] 3.23, 3.26, diagrams 12-13
Access Architraves Automatic release mechanism
See Fire service facilities Definition of wall and ceiling 7.2-7.3 Definition appendix E
Access corridors Area Holding open self-closing fire doors
See Corridor access Methods of measurement diagram C2 appendix B(3)
Access for fire service Art galleries Automatic self-closing devices
See Fire service facilities Floor space factors table 1 Definition appendix E
Access panels Artificial lighting Fire doors appendix B(2)
Fire protecting suspended ceilings See Lighting Holding open fire doors appendix B(3)
table A3 Assembly and recreation
Access rooms
Definition appendix E
purpose group
Automatic fire detection and alarm
B
Escape from flats and systems 1.31 Back gardens
maisonettes 3.7 Compartmentation 9.20 Ground or basement storey exits
Escape in single family houses 2.4 Counting number of storeys diagram 2
Horizontal escape from buildings diagram C4 Means of escape in single family
other than dwellings 4.9, Escape lighting table 9 houses 2.11
diagram 17 Escape route design 4.4 Balconies
Accommodation stairs 5.23 Spacing of fixed seating 4.18 Means of escape from flats and
Definition appendix E Travel distance limitations table 3 maisonettes 3.9, 3.15, 3.20
Active measures for fire External escape stairs 5.33 Means of escape in dwelling
extinguishment 0.14 External walls 13.2, diagram 40 houses 2.6
See also Sprinkler systems Fire doors table B1 Bars
Aggregate notional area Floor space factors table 1 Escape lighting table 9
Space separation 14.15 Junction of compartment wall Floor space factors table 1
Air changes with roof 9.30 Basement storeys
See Ventilation Maximum dimensions of building Car parks 12.4, 12.7, 19.17
Air circulation systems for or compartment table 12 Compartmentation 9.20
heating, energy conservation Means of escape [Link] Construction of escape stairs 6.19
or condensation control Mechanical ventilation 6.47 Counting the number of storeys
Flats and maisonettes with a floor Minimum width of escape diagram C4
more than 4.5m above ground stairs table 6 Definition appendix E
level 3.16 Panic bolts 6.12 Escape routes clear of smoke
Houses with a floor more than Provision of cavity barriers table 13 vents 19.12
4.5m above ground level 2.15 Purpose groups table D1 Final exits clear of smoke
Air conditioning 6.49 Simultaneous evacuation 5.15 vents 6.34
Ducts and integrity of Space separation 14.2 Fire protection of lift installations
compartments 11.10 Acceptable unprotected 6.43, 6.44
See also Ventilation areas 14.16 Fire resistance of elements of
Air supported structures 7.8 Notional boundaries 14.6 structure 8.3, table A2
Aisles Permitted unprotected areas in Means of escape from buildings
Fixed seating 4.18, 6.30 small buildings or compartments other than dwellings 5.32, 5.5
Alterations table 16 Added protection 5.24
Material alteration 0.19 Atria Capacity of a stair table 7
Alternative approaches [Link] Automatic fire detection and alarm Simultaneous evacuation 5.15
Alternative escape routes [Link], [Link] systems 1.31 Means of escape from flats and
Definition appendix E Compartmentation 9.8, 9.35 maisonettes 3.8, 3.40- 3.42
Flats and maisonettes 3.18 Definition appendix E Means of escape in single family
Horizontal escape from buildings Fire protection of lift installations 6.41 houses 2.10
other than dwellings 4.3, 4.5, 4.8, Fire safety measures 0.16 Provision of fire fighting shafts
4.23, diagram 16 Space separation 14.18 18.1-18.2, 18.4-18.5, diagram 51
Houses with floor more than Auditoria Venting of heat and smoke
4.5m above ground 2.12, 2.13 See Assembly 19.1- 19.17
Provision of cavity barriers table 13 Automated storage systems See also Underground accommodation
Alternative exits See Storage and other non-residential Bathrooms
Definition appendix E Automatic doors Inner rooms 2.4
Fire doors table B1 See Doors and doorways, Fire doors Smoke alarms 1.16
Flats and maisonettes Automatic fire dampers Beams
Balconies 3.9 Openings in cavity barriers 10.14 Fire resistance 8.2, table A1
Floor more than 4.5m above Automatic fire detection and Bedroom corridors
ground 3.11- 3.15, diagrams 9-10 alarm system 0.14 Limitations on travel distance table 3
Progressive horizontal Air extraction system 19.14 Use of uninsulated glazed elements
evacuation 4.30 Inner rooms 4.9 on escape routes table A4
Amusement arcades Maximum dimensions of Bedrooms
Floor space factors table 1 concealed spaces 10.13 Flats with alternative exits 3.12
Ancillary accommodation Raised storage areas 8.9 Floor space factors table 1
Escape routes for flats or Requirement B1 page 10 Inner rooms 4.9
maisonettes 3.27, 3.43- 3.44 Storeys divided into different Limitations on travel distance table 3
Ancillary use occupancies 4.14 Partitions and provision of cavity
Purpose groups appendix D(3)-(5) Systems barriers table 13
Anticipated fire severity 0.13 Dwellings 1.2-1.22 Positioning smoke alarms 1.11
Appliance ventilation ducts Buildings other than dwellings Bed-sitting rooms
Compartments 9.35, 11.11 1.23-1.32 Floor space factors table 1
Definition appendix E Ventilation of common escape Betting offices
routes 3.23 Floor space factors table 1

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B INDEX
Billiard rooms Buildings of architectural or Central alarm monitoring
Floor space factors table 1 historical interest Sheltered housing 1.10
Bingo halls Fire safety 0.12 Central cores
Floor space factors table 1 Bulkheads See Exits
Boiler rooms Smoke outlet shafts and ducts 19.15 Central handrails
Common stairs 3.43 Bungalows Width of escape stairs 5.6, 5.7
Location of final exits 6.34 See Sheltered housing, Dwelling houses Chimneys
Places of special fire hazard By-passing of compartmentation Openings in compartment walls
appendix E See Compartments or floors 9.35
Smoke alarms in dwellings 1.16 Chutes
See also Plant rooms
Bolts
C See Refuse chutes
Circulation spaces
See Fastenings Cables Definition appendix E
Boundaries 14.4 Fire-stopping 11.12 Glazing external windows with
Definition appendix E Openings in cavity barriers 10.14 thermoplastic materials 7.12
Space separation for buildings Power supply Positioning smoke alarms 1.11
fitted with sprinklers 14.17 smoke alarms 1.17-1.22 Separating circulation routes from
See also Notional boundaries, Protected circuits 6.38 stairways 4.12
Relevant boundaries Canopies 14.11, diagram 45 Wall and ceiling linings B2.i, table 10
Bridges Capacity Cladding
Fire service vehicle access route See Occupant capacity Elements of structure [Link]
specification table 21 Car parks External wall construction 13.7
British Standards Common stairs 3.43 Overcladding 10.1
476 appendix A(20) Enclosed car parks Rain screen cladding
476: Part 3 15.4, appendix A(6) Fire protection of lift Concealed spaces 10.1, 10.11
476: Part 4 B2.v, appendix A(7), table A6 installations 6.43 Provision of cavity barriers table 13
476: Part 6 B2.v, appendix A(11), Escape lighting table 9 Surface of the outer cladding
(14), (19) Floor space factors table 1 facing the cavity 13.6
476: Part 7 B2.v, 15.7, appendix A(10), Internal fire spread 12.2-12.7 Class 0
(14), (19) Maximum dimensions of building Definition appendix E
476: Part 8 appendix A(5), table A1, or compartment table 12 Performance ratings of some generic
table B1 Non-combustible materials table A6 materials and products table A8
476: Part 11 B2.v, appendix A(7-8), Open sided car parks 12.4 Product performance appendix A(12)
tables A6-A7 Height of building or Use of materials of limited
476: Parts 20-24 appendix A(5), compartment 14.20 combustibility table A7
table A1 Separation distances table 16 Cloakrooms
476: Part 22 appendix B(1), table B1 Single stair buildings 3.19 Protected stairways 5.29
2782 appendix A(19), (20) Smoke venting from basement 19.17 Clubs
2782: Part 1 appendix A(16) Cavity barriers Floor space factors table 1
4514 table 15 Cavity walls excluded diagram 32 Collapse, Resistance to [Link],
5255 table 15 Concealed floor or roof spaces 7.6 appendix A(5)
5266: Part 1 6.36 Construction and fixings 10.6-10.9 Columns
5306: Part 1 16.6 Definition appendix E Fire resistance 8.2, table A1
5306: Part 2 5.20, 8.9, 14.17, 18.7, Double skinned insulated roof Portal frames 13.4
19.13, table 12 sheeting diagram 36 Combustible external surface
5395: Part 2 6.22 Extensive ceiling voids 10.12 materials 14.1
5438 appendix A(19) Fire doors table B1 Unprotected area 14.9, diagram 43
5446: Part 1 1.4 Maximum dimensions 10.10-10.13 Commercial
5499: Part 1 6.37, appendix B(8) Openings 10.14, 11.5 See Shops and commercial
5588: Part 0 [Link], 3.48 Provision 10.2-10.5, diagram 31, purpose group
5588: Part 1 3.2, 3.6, 3.20 table 13 Committee rooms
5588: Part 4 3.26, 4.24, 5.12 Cavity walls Floor space factors table 1
5588: Part 5 [Link], 6.8, 9.43, 18.11 Excluded from provisions for Common balconies
5588: Part 6 [Link], 4.18, 6.30, 6.47 cavity barriers diagram 32 Definition appendix E
5588: Part 7 0.16, 1.31, 9.8, 9.35, 14.18 See also Insulation, Rain Means of escape from flats and
5588: Part 8 [Link], 6.39 screen cladding maisonettes 3.9, 3.15
5588: Part 9 6.46, 6.49, 10.13 Ceilings Common corridors
5588: Part 10 0.16, [Link], 9.20, 12.9, Concealed spaces 10.1 Escape routes for flats and
18.6, table 3 Surfaces exposed 7.16 maisonettes 3.18, 3.22
5588: Part 11 [Link], 4.1, 4.21, 5.5, 5.23 Definition appendix E Escape lighting table 9
5720 6.49 Enclosure of corridors by Ventilation 3.23
5839: Part 1 1.3, 1.6, 1.16, 1.27, 1.29, partitions 4.22 Storeys divided into different
1.30, 5.20, 8.9, 10.13, 19.14 Extensive concealed spaces occupancies 4.14
5839: Part 2 1.27 10.12-10.13 Subdivision of common escape
5839: Part 6 1.3, 1.4, 1.7, 1.16 Fire-resisting ceilings routes 3.24- 3.25
5839: Part 8 1.28, 5.20 Concealed spaces 7.6, 10.11, Common escape routes
5867: Part 2 appendix A(19) diagram 35, table 13 See Escape routes, Common corridors
5906 6.50 Fire-protecting suspended Common loadbearing elements
6073 table A6 ceilings 7.5, table A3 See Elements of structure
6336 appendix A(20) Lighting diffusers in suspended Common rooms
6387 6.38 ceilings 7.11, appendix A(18), Floor space factors table 1
6661 7.8 table 11 Common stairs
7157 7.9 Lighting diffusers that form part Definition appendix E
7346: Part 2 12.7, 19.14 of a ceiling 7.14-7.16, diagram 23 Escape lighting table 9
8214 appendix B(11) Limited combustibility materials Flats and maisonettes 3.18,
8313 9.42 table A7 3.29- 3.34, 3.43, diagrams 12-14
CP 1007 6.36 Linings B2.i, 7.1 Compartment floors diagram 27
DD 240 0.11 Definition 7.2-7.3 Construction 9.21-9.32
PD 6520 appendix A(20) Non-combustible materials table A6 Openings 9.35
Building footprint Suspended or stretched skin 7.17 Definition appendix E
See Perimeter of building Flues diagram 39

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INDEX B
Illustration of guidance diagram 26 Escape lighting table 9 Doors and doorways
Nominal internal diameter of pipes Fire doors table B1 Common escape routes 3.24- 3.26,
passing through table 15 Glazed screen to protected shafts diagram 14
Phased evacuation 5.20 9.39-9.40, diagram 30 Definition of wall and ceiling
Provision 9.9-9.20 Subdivision 4.22-4.24 7.2-7.3, 7.12
Compartment walls diagram 27 Dead ends diagram 19 Escape routes 6.10
Between dwelling and corridor 3.22 Use of uninsulated glazed elements Exit signs 6.37
Construction on escape routes table A4 External
Junctions 9.27-9.31, diagram 28 Vision panels in doors 6.17 Means of escape in dwelling
Openings 9.33-9.35, appendix B(5) See also Bedroom corridors, houses 2.11
Definition appendix E Common corridors, External escape stairs 6.25
Elements of structure [Link] Protected corridors Fastening 6.11- 6.13
Flues diagram 39 Courtyards Fire resistance 6.6, appendix B(1)
Nominal internal diameter of pipes Means of escape in dwelling houses Fire safety signs appendix B(8)
passing through table 15 2.11, diagram 2 Height of escape routes 4.15, 6.26
Provision 9.9-9.20 Cover moulds Loft conversions 2.19
Unsuitability of cavity barriers 10.5 Definition of wall and ceiling 7.2-7.3 Measuring width [Link], diagram 1
Compartments 9.1-9.43, diagram 27 Crush halls Opening 6.14- 6.16
Application of purpose groups Floor space factors table 1 Openings in cavity barriers 10.14
appendix D(1) Cubic capacity Openings in compartment walls or
Basements Measurement diagram C1 floors 9.33-9.35
Direct access to venting 19.3 Cupboards Openings in enclosure to protected
Calculating acceptable unprotected Fire doors appendix B(2), B(8) shaft 9.43
area for compartments 14.20, table 16 Protected stairways 5.29 Pressurized escape routes 4.24
Definition appendix E Curtain walls Separation of circulation routes
Escape from flats and maisonettes 3.3 Elements of structure [Link] from stairways 4.12
Fire doors table B1 Subdivision of corridors 4.23
Fire protection of lift installations 6.42
Flues etc 11.11
D Vision panels 6.17
See also Fire doors
Ventilation or air conditioning Dance floors/halls Dormer windows
ducts 11.10 Floor space factors table 1 Means of escape in
Maximum dimensions (non-residential Dead end dwellinghouses 2.11
buildings) table 12 Alternative means of escape [Link] Loft conversions diagram 6
Measuring areas diagram C2 Definition appendix E Dormitories
Progressive horizontal evacuation Fire door subdividing dead end Floor space factors table 1
4.31, 9.18 portions of corridor from remainder Drainage
Shopping complexes 12.8 of corridor table B1 Enclosure of pipes diagram 38
Space separation 14.2, 14.3, 14.10 Fire service vehicle access route Maximum nominal internal diameter
Composite products specification 17.11, diagram 50 of pipes 11.8, table 15
Materials of limited combustibility Horizontal escape from buildings Dressing rooms
appendix A(13) other than dwellings 4.3 Inner rooms 2.4
Concealed spaces (cavities) 10.1 Corridors 4.21, 4.24, diagram 19 Dry mains
Cavity walls excluded from provisions Travel distance diagram 15 See Fire mains
for cavity barriers diagram 32 Number of escape routes from flats Ducts
Construction of cavity barriers and maisonettes 3.18 Construction of smoke vent
10.6-10.9 Portion of common corridor 3.25 ducts 19.15
Definition appendix E Use of uninsulated glazed elements Fire doors appendix B(2), B(8)
Fire-resisting ceilings 7.6, diagram 35 on escape routes table A4 Openings in cavity barriers 10.14
Interrupting diagram 31 Ventilation of escape routes from Openings in compartment walls
Maximum dimensions 10.10-10.13 flats and maisonettes 3.23 or floors 9.35
Non-residential buildings table 14 Deck access Containing flues or for appliance
Openings in cavity barriers 10.14 Means of escape from flats and ventilation 11.11
Provision of cavity barriers 10.2-10.5 maisonettes 3.20 Ventilation and air conditioning
Roof space over protected stairway Department of Health – Firecode 11.10
in house with a floor over 4.5m above See Firecode Protected shafts 9.37
ground level diagram 33 Different occupancies/uses Ventilating ducts 9.41, 9.43
Concourses See Mixed use, Separate occupancies Ventilation of car parks 12.7
Floor space factors table 1 Dining rooms Dwelling houses
Conduits for cables Floor space factors table 1 Calculating acceptable unprotected
Openings in cavity barriers 10.14 Direct distances area 14.15, 14.19, diagram 46
Openings passing through a Definition appendix E Fire doors table B1
separating element 11.12 Limitations on travel distance table 3 Means of escape 2.1-2.26
Conference rooms Disabled people 6.28, 6.30 Protecting from attached or integral
Floor space factors table 1 Means of escape [Link] garages 9.5, 9.14, diagram 25, table A2
Means of escape [Link] Evacuation lifts [Link], [Link], 6.39 Provision of cavity barriers table 13
Conservatories Phased evacuation 5.18 Provision of smoke outlets from
Measuring floor area diagram C2 Travel distance limitations table 3 basements 19.4
Plastic roofs tables 18-19 Vision panels in doors 6.17 Purpose groups table D1
Construction (Health, Safety and Width of escape routes and exits 4.16 Roof space over protected stairway
Welfare) Regulations 1996 page 6 Discounting of stairs 5.2, 5.11-5.13 in house with a floor over 4.5m above
Corridor access Added protection 5.24 ground level diagram 33
Alternative exits from flats and Discounting of storey exits 4.19 Separation distances for roofs 15.5,
maisonettes 3.15 Domestic garages table 17
Definition appendix E Construction protecting houses Terrace and semi-detached B3
Escape routes for flats and 9.5, 9.14, diagram 25, table A2 Requirement page 60
maisonettes diagrams 12-13 Fire doors between dwelling and Compartmentation 9.13
Vision panels in doors 6.17 garage table B1 Use of uninsulated glazed elements
Corridors 4.21-4.24 Measuring floor area diagram C2 on escape routes table A4
Door opening 6.16 Smoke alarms 1.16
Enclosures diagram 34
Provision of cavity barriers table 13

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Dwellings Horizontal escape from buildings
Definition appendix E other than dwellings 4.1-4.32, table 3 F
Exit signs 6.37 Alternative routes diagram 16 Factory production areas
Mixed use buildings 3.47- 3.48 Minimum number table 4 Floor space factors table 1
Smoke alarms 1.2-1.22 Width table 5 Travel distance table 3 note 6
See also Flats and maisonettes, Houses with floor more than 4.5m Fastenings
Residential use, Single family houses above ground level 2.13-2.14 Doors on escape routes 6.11
Lifts prejudicing 6.40 See also Security fastenings
E Lighting 6.36, table 9
Measuring width [Link]
Feature lifts
Fire protection of lift installations 6.41
Eaves Mechanical ventilation 6.46 Final exits [Link], 6.31- 6.34
Position of emergency egress Ramps and sloping floors 6.28- 6.30 Definition appendix E
window diagram 6 Single steps 6.21 Enclosure of existing stair 2.18
Roof measurements diagram C2 Siting access to refuse storage Houses with a floor more than 4.5m
EC mark chambers 6.53 above ground level diagram 3
Limitation on requirements page 5 Siting of smoke vents 19.12 Protected stairways 3.35, 5.26
Educational buildings Use of uninsulated glazed Siting access to refuse storage
Means of escape [Link], 4.5, elements on escape routes table A4 chambers 6.53
5.5, table 3, table 5 Width 4.16 Fire alarms 1.1-1.32
Electrical circuits Width relative to that of final exit 6.31 Phased evacuation 5.18
See Protected power circuits See also Protected escape routes See also Automatic fire detection
Electrical wiring Escape stairs and alarm system, Smoke and
Concealed spaces 10.13-10.14 See Stairs fumes, Warning
Openings passing through a Escape without external assistance Firecode (Department of Health) 0.17
separating element 11.12 B1.i Means of escape [Link], 4.29-4.30
Smoke alarms 1.17-1.22 European Technical Approval Travel distances table 3
Electricity generator rooms Limitation on requirements page 5 Fire doors 11.4, appendix B, table B1
Escape lighting table 9 Evacuation Car parks 12.3
Elements of structure Escape stairs 5.9-5.21 Definition appendix E
Definition appendix E Added protection for phased See also Doors and doorways
Fire resistance [Link], 8.1-8.11, evacuation 5.24 Firefighting lifts 18.1-18.5, 18.11
13.1, appendix A(5) Capacity of stairs for basements Approach 18.9, 18.12
Tests by element table A1 and for simultaneous evacuation Components of firefighting shaft
Emergency control rooms table 7 diagram 52
Escape lighting table 9 Width of stairs designed for Definition appendix E
Emergency egress windows phased evacuation table 8 Flats and maisonettes 18.12
See Windows Purpose of providing structure with Firefighting lobbies
Emergency lighting 6.36 fire resistance 8.1 Approach to firefighting stair or
Definition appendix E Relationships to security [Link] lift 18.9, 18.12
Enclosed car parks See also Disabled people, Components of firefighting shaft
See Car parks Progressive horizontal evacuation diagram 52
Enclosed space Evacuation lifts Definition appendix E
Ground or basement storey exits Definition appendix E Fire fighting facilities 18.1
diagram 2 Disabled [Link], [Link], 6.39 Flats and maisonettes 18.12
Enclosing rectangle Exhibition halls Outlets from fire mains 16.5
Space separation 14.15 Floor space factors table 1 Firefighting shafts 5.23
Enclosure Existing buildings Components diagram 52
Common stairs 3.33- 3.34 Fire safety 0.12 Definition appendix E
Corridors diagram 34 See also Buildings of architectural Design and construction 18.9-18.12
Provision of cavity barriers table 13 or historic interest External walls
Drainage or water supply pipes Exit signs 6.37 Fire resistance 9.43
diagram 38 Exits Flats and maisonettes 18.1, 18.12
Escape stairs 5.23 Central cores 4.10, diagram 18 Glazed screens 9.39
Fire resistance 6.3 Discounting of exits 4.19 Number and location 18.7-18.8
Enquiry office Mechanical ventilation 6.46 Building fitted with sprinklers
Protected stairways 5.29 See also Alternative exits, table 22
Entrance halls Final exits, Storey exits Provision 18.1-18.6, diagram 51
See Protected entrance halls External assistance B1.i Provision of fire mains 16.2, 16.4, 18.10
Escalators External fire spread Firefighting stairs 3.32, 5.3, 5.29,
Means of escape [Link] Performance B4 guidance page 85 6.19, 18.1
Protected shafts 9.37 Requirement B4 page 84 Approach through firefighting
Escape lighting 6.36, table 9 External stair lobby 18.9
Definition appendix E See Stairs Components of firefighting shaft
Escape routes External surfaces of external walls diagram 52
Alternative escape and provision of See External walls Definition appendix E
cavity barriers table 13 External walls Fire load density
Clear of building 6.32 Concealed spaces 10.1, 10.11 appendix A(3)
Common parts of flats and Construction 13.1-13.7 Fire mains 16.1-16.6
maisonettes 3.18- 3.46 Definition appendix E Fire fighting shafts 16.2, 17.6-17.7,
Common escape route in small Elements of structure [Link] 18.10,diagram 52
single stair building diagram 14 External escape stairs 6.25, diagram 22 Implications for vehicle access
Limitations on distance of travel External fire spread B4.i 17.1, 17.6-17.7
table 2 External surfaces 13.5, diagram 40 Fire penetration [Link], appendix A(5)
Definition appendix E Facing a boundary 14.4 Fireplace surrounds
Doors on 6.10- 6.18 Fire resistance 13.3, table A1, table A2 Definition of wall 7.2
Enclosure of existing stair 2.18 Protected shafts 9.43 Fire Precautions Act 1971 [Link],
Fire doors table B1 Protected stairways 3.38, 5.30, 6.24, [Link], 1.24
Floors 6.27 diagram 21 Management of premises [Link]
Height 4.15, 6.26 Unprotected areas 14.7-14.10, Powers to require staff training 0.14
Helical stairs, spiral stairs and fixed 14.13-14.16, 14.19-14.20, diagram 43, Travel distances (industrial &
ladders 6.22- 6.23 diagram 44 storage buildings) table 3

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INDEX B
Fire Precautions (Workplace) Buildings not fitted with fire mains Fire resistance 8.2, Table A1
Regulations 1997 0.14, [Link], [Link], 1.24 17.2-17.5, table 20 Fire spread by upper surfaces [Link]
Fire propagation indices Design 17.8-17.11 Loft conversions 8.7
Internal linings appendix A(11), A(12) Example of building footprint and More than 4.5m above ground level
Fire resistance appendix A(3)-A(5) perimeter diagram 48 Means of escape from flats and
Definition appendix E Examples of high reach fire appliance maisonettes 3.11- 3.15
Discounting radiation through access to buildings diagram 49 Means of escape from houses
external walls 14.2 Turning facilities 17.11, diagram 50 2.13-2.14
Elements of structure [Link], 8.2-8.3 Fire spread Sloping 6.29
Tests by element table A1 Implications for means of escape [Link] See also Compartment floors
Minimum periods by building type Fire stops 11.2,11.12-11.14 Flues
table A2 Definition appendix E Non-combustible materials table A6
Fire-resisting construction [Link], Junction of compartment wall with Openings in compartment walls or
[Link], 8.1-8.3 roof 9.28, diagram 28 floors 9.35, 11.11, diagram 39
Alternative escape routes 4.8 Junction with slates, tiles, corrugated Foundations
Ceilings 7.15, 7.17 sheeting or similar 10.8 Steel portal frames 13.4
Concealed spaces 7.6, 10.11, Reinforcing materials 11.13, table A7 Fuel storage space
table 13, diagram 35 Fire tests Common stairs 3.43
Compartmentation 9.1, 9.22 For fire resistance by element table A1 Fully supported material
Corridors 4.21 Methods 0.7, B2.v, appendix A(20) Designation of roof coverings table A5
Dead ends diagram 19 Purpose appendix A(2) Furnishings
Cupboards 5.29 Fittings Fire spread [Link]
Ducts Fire spread [Link] Furniture
Openings in cavity barriers 10.14 Fixed ladders Fire spread [Link]
External escape stairs 6.25, See Ladders Fitted -Definition of wall 7.2
diagram 22 Fixed seating 6.30 Fusible links
Fire protection of lift installations 6.42 Means of escape [Link] Holding open self-closing fire doors
Flat roof forming an escape route 6.35 Measuring travel distance [Link] appendix B(3)
Places of special fire hazard 9.12 Spacing 4.18
Protection of common stairs
3.31- 3.39
Fixings
Cavity barriers 10.9
G
Refuse chutes and rooms for refuse Flame spread Galleries
storage 6.51 Internal linings B2.i, appendix A(9) Counting storeys diagram C4
Screens for subdivision of common Flat roofs Definition appendix E
escape routes 3.24- 3.25, 4.23 Means of escape from buildings Fire resistance 8.2, table A2
Separating top storey in house from other than dwellings 4.28, 6.35 Raised storage areas 8.8
lower storeys 2.13, diagram 4 Means of escape from flats and Gangways
Separation between garage and maisonettes 3.9, 3.15, 3.28, 6.35 Between fixed storage racking table 5
dwellinghouse diagram 25 Means of escape in single family Fixed seating 6.30
Shop store rooms 6.54 houses 2.5-2.6 Measuring travel distance [Link]
Smoke outlet shafts 19.15-19.16, Measuring height diagram C3 Garages
diagram 53 Notional designations of coverings See Domestic garages, Car parks
Fire safety engineering 0.11-0.15 table A5 Gardens
Fire safety signs Flats and maisonettes See Back gardens
Exits 6.37 Ancillary use appendix D(3) Gas appliances
Fire doors appendix B(8) Calculating acceptable unprotected Protected stairways 5.29
Fire separating elements [Link] area 14.15, 14.19-14.20, diagram 46 Gas meters
Definition Appendix E Compartmentation 9.15 Protected stairways 3.39, 5.31
Fire-stopping 11.1-11.2, 11.12 Conversion to 8.10 Gas Safety (Installation & Use)
Fire separation Fire doors table B1 Regulations 1998 3.39, 9.41
Adjoining protected stairways Fire service facilities 18.1 Gas service pipes
3.36, 5.28 firefighting shafts 18.12 Protected shafts 9.41
Between buildings 0.14, 9.1, 9.23 vehicle access 17.3 Ventilation 9.42
Enclosure to protected shaft 9.43 Means of escape 3.1- 3.48 Protected stairways 3.39, 5.31
External walls B4.i, 14.6, table A2 Distance of travel in common Glazed screens
Garages and houses 9.14, areas table 2 Construction of protected shafts
diagram 25, table A2 Internal planning of flats 3.10- 3.12, 9.38-9.40, diagram 30
Fire resistance [Link] diagram 7-9 Use on escape routes table A4
Loft conversions 2.22, diagram 5 Internal planning of maisonettes Glazing
Open sided car parks 12.4 3.13- 3.14, diagram 10-11 Definition of wall and ceiling 7.2-7.3
Openings 11.1-11.2 Served by one common stair Fire resistance of doors 2.19, 6.69
Compartment walls 9.33, 9.35 diagram 12 Fire resistance of glazed
Separated parts Served by more than one common elements 6.7- 6.9
Compartmentation 9.5, 9.24 stair diagram 13 Glass and glazing elements on
See also Cavity barriers Small single stair building escape routes 6.4, table A4
Fire service facilities 0.14 diagram 14 In door not part of wall 7.12
Access to buildings for fire-fighting Provision of cavity barriers table 13 Limitations on areas of uninsulated
personnel 18.1-18.13 Purpose groups table D1 glazing table A4
Buildings not fitted with fire Smoke alarms 1.9 Loft conversions 2.20
mains 17.2-17.5 Use of uninsulated glazed elements Protected shafts 9.38
Fire mains 16.1-16.6 on escape routes table A4 Safety 6.9
Loft conversions 2.25 Flexible membranes 7.9 Thermoplastic materials 7.12
Performance B5 guidance page 99 Floor area Unwired glass in rooflights 15.8
Requirement B5 page 98 Methods of measurement diagram C2 Gradient
Vehicle access 16.1,17.1 Floor level Hardstandings diagram 49
Access routes and hardstandings Change in relation to door swing 6.15 Group Homes for mentally
17.8-17.11, table 21 Floor space factors table 1 impaired/mentally ill
Blocks of flats/maisonettes 17.3 Floors Means of escape [Link]
Buildings fitted with fire mains Concealed spaces 10.11 Guarding
17.6-17.7 Elements of structure [Link], 8.4 Flat roof forming escape route
Escape routes 6.27 2.6, 6.35
Route clear of the building 6.32

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H Houses, Single family

See Dwelling houses J
Habitable rooms Housing Act 1985 Junctions
Definition appendix E Means of escape from houses in Compartmentation 9.6
Escape from multiple occupation B1.v, 2.3, Compartment wall or floor with
flats and maisonettes 3.11- 3.14 Hydraulic lifts other walls 9.27
houses 2.7, 2.8, 2.10 Pipes for oil or gas in protected Compartment wall with roof
loft conversions 2.17 shafts 9.41 9.28-9.31, diagram 28
Floors in loft conversions 8.7 Hydraulic platforms
Hammerhead
Fire service vehicle access route
See High Reach appliances K
specification 17.11
Handicapped
I Keys
See Security fastenings
See Disabled people Industrial purpose group Kitchens
Hardstandings Automatic fire detection and alarm Fire protection of lift installations 6.43
Fire fighting vehicles 17.1,17.8-17.10, systems 1.31 Floor space factors table 1
diagram 49 Compartmentation 9.20 Inner rooms 2.4
Hardware Escape lighting table 9 Means of escape from flats and
Fire doors appendix B(12) Escape route design maisonettes 3.11, diagram 8
See also Fastenings, Hinges Travel distance limitations table 3 Smoke alarms 1.16
Hazard Maximum dimensions of building or Positioning smoke alarms 1.11
See Places of special fire hazard, Risk compartment table 12
Headroom Provision of cavity barriers table 13
Purpose groups table D1
L
Escape routes – general provisions Ladders
common to buildings other than Space separation
Acceptable unprotected areas Means of escape [Link], 6.22- 6.23
dwelling houses 6.26 Flats and maisonettes 3.3
Horizontal escape from buildings 14.16
Permitted unprotected areas in Loft conversions 2.23, 2.25
other than dwellings 4.15 Non-combustible materials table A6
Health and safety small buildings or compartments
table 16 See also High Reach appliances
Certification of specialised Landings
premises [Link] Roofs table 17, diagram 47
See also Storage and warehousing Door opening and effect on escape
Limitation on requirements page 5 routes 6.15
Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 Inner rooms
Definition appendix E Fire resistance of areas adjacent to
Certification of specialised external stairs diagram 22
premises [Link] Escape from flats and maisonettes 3.7
Escape in single family houses 2.4 Floorings 6.27
Management of premises [Link] See also Protected landings
Health care Horizontal escape from buildings other
than dwellings 4.9, 4.13 Large and complex buildings
See Residential (institutional) purpose Fire safety engineering 0.11
Height In-patient care
See Hospitals, Residential Mixture of uses appendix D(3)
Definition appendix E Large dwellings
Methods of measurement (institutional) purpose
Institutional premises Smoke alarms 1.5-1.7
of building diagram C3 Latches
of top storey diagram C5 See Residential (institutional) purpose
Insulated roof sheeting See Fastenings
Helical stairs Laundries
Escape routes 6.22- 6.23 Concealed spaces 10.11
Cavity barriers diagram 36 See Utility rooms
High reach appliances Lecture halls
Fire fighting vehicle access 17.1 Insulating core panels
[Link], [Link], appendix F Means of escape [Link]
Access route specification table 21 Libraries
diagram 49 Insulation
Above fire protecting suspended Floor space factors table 1
Buildings not fitted with fire mains Lift wells
table 20 ceilings table A3, table A7
Concealed spaces Fire protection of lift installations 6.41
Overhead obstructions 17.10 diagram 49 Use of space within protected
High risk Flame spread rating of pipe
insulation 10.13 stairways 3.37, 5.29
See Places of special fire hazard Lifts
Hinges Space containing combustible
insulation 10.11 Dwellings 2.16
Fire doors appendix B(7) Exits in central core 4.10
Historic buildings 0.12 External wall construction 13.7
High temperatures [Link], appendix A(5) Fire doors forming part of enclosure
Homes of lift shaft table B1
See Group Homes for mentally Integrity
Resistance to fire penetration [Link], Fire protection of installations 6.40- 6.45
impaired/mentally ill, Residential Lift doors appendix B(1)
(institutional) purpose, Nursing homes appendix A(5)
Intercom system Protected shafts 9.37
Homes for the elderly Containing pipes 9.41
Means of escape [Link] Phased evacuation 5.20
Internal fire spread (linings) Openings in enclosure 9.43
Horizontal escape See also Evacuation lifts, Fire
Buildings other than dwellings Performance B2 guidance page 56
Requirement B2 page 55 fighting lifts
4.1-4.32 Lighting
Hoses Internal fire spread (structure)
Performance B3 guidance page 61 Diffusers forming part of a ceiling
Fire mains 16.1 7.14-7.16, diagram 23
Hospitals Requirement B3 page 60
Internal linings Diffusers in suspended ceilings
Compartmentation 4.31-4.32, 7.11, appendix A(18), table 11
9.16-18, 9.32 Classification 7.1-7.17, table 10
Performance of materials Diffusers TP(b)
HTM 81 0.17, [Link] Layout restrictions diagram 24
Means of escape [Link], 4.29-4.32 appendix A(9)-A(15)
Protection of substrate appendix A(17) Escape routes 6.36, table 9
Single escape routes and exits 4.5 Lighting bridges
Travel distance table 3 Internal speech communication system
Phased evacuation 5.20 See Galleries
House conversions Limitations on requrements page 5
See Loft conversions Limited combustibility
Conversion to flats 8.10 See Materials of limited combustibility
Houses in multiple occupation Linings
Means of escape B1.v, 2.3, 3.5 See Internal linings

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Living rooms Performance B1 guidance page 11 Floor space factors table 1
Positioning smoke alarms 1.11 Protected shafts Junction of compartment wall with
Loadbearing capacity appendix A(5) Openings in enclosure that is roof 9.30
Resistance to collapse [Link] wall common to two buildings 9.43 Maximum dimensions of building
Loadbearing elements of structure Requirement B1 page 10 or compartment table 12
See Elements of structure Measurement Means of escape
Lobbies See Methods of measurement Alternative approach [Link], 4.1
Common escape route in small single Mechanical ventilation Limitation of travel distance table 3
stair building diagram 14 See Ventilation Single escape stairs 5.5
Discounting of stairs 5.12, 5.13 Mechanised walkways Small premises 4.1
Exits in central core 4.10 Means of escape [Link] Provision of cavity barriers table 13
Glazed screen to protected shafts Meeting rooms Purpose groups table D1
9.39-9.40, diagram 30 Floor space factors table 1 Space separation
Use of uninsulated glazed elements Methods of measurement appendix C Acceptable unprotected areas 14.16
on escape routes table A4 Means of escape Permitted unprotected areas in
Ventilation of common escape Occupant capacity [Link] small buildings or compartments
routes 3.23 Travel distance [Link] table 16
See also Fire fighting lobbies, Width of escape routes, doors and Open planning
Protected lobbies stairs [Link] Awareness of fires 4.22
Locks Mixed use Escape lighting table 9
See Fastenings Car park and other use 12.4 Simultaneous evacuation 5.15
Loft conversions Compartment walls and Open sided car parks
Fire separation 2.22, diagram 5 compartment floors 9.11 See Car parks
Floors 8.7 Division of storeys 4.13 Open spatial planning
Means of escape 2.17-2.25 Dwellings in mixed use buildings Definition appendix E
Smoke alarms 1.8, 2.26 3.47, 3.48 Openable vents
Lounges Escape stairs 5.2, 5.4, 5.5 Escape routes for flats or
Fire protection of lift installations 6.43 Horizontal escape 4.4 maisonettes 3.23, diagram 12,
Floor space factors table 1 Storage of petrol & LPG 3.48 diagram 13, diagram 14
LPG see Mixed use Multiple occupation Openable windows
See Houses in multiple occupation See Windows
M Multi-storey buildings
Horizontal escape from buildings
Opening characteristics
See Doors and doorways
Main use other than dwellings 4.3, 4.10 Openings
Purpose groups appendix D(1) Vertical escape from buildings other Cavity barriers 10.14
Maintenance than dwellings 5.1 Compartment walls or floors 9.35
Fire safety 0.14, 0.20 Compartment walls separating
Smoke alarms 1.15, 1.16
Maisonettes
N buildings or occupancies 9.33
Emergency egress in dwelling
See Flats and maisonettes Natural ventilation houses 2.11
Malls See Ventilation Protected shafts 9.43
Application of requirements 12.8 Non-combustible materials Protection 11.1-11.14
Fire protection of lift installations 6.41 Definition appendix E See also Doors and doorways,
Floor space factors in shopping malls Sleeving non-combustible pipes 11.9 Windows
table 1 Use appendix A(7), table A6 Other non-residential
Travel distances in shopping malls Non-residential buildings See Storage and other non-residential
table 3 Calculating acceptable unprotected Other residential use
Management area 14.20, table 16 Calculating acceptable unprotected
Evacuation of disabled people [Link] Compartmentation 9.20 area 14.15, 14.16, 14.19, 14.20,
Premises 0.14, [Link] Maximum dimensions of concealed diagram 46, table 16
See also Central monitoring spaces table 14 Compartmentation 9.19
Manhole covers Non-residential buildings Fire doors table B1
Design of access routes and Maximum dimensions of building Junction of compartment wall with
hardstandings 17.8 or compartment table 12 roof 9.30
Mantleshelves Purpose groups table D1 Limitations on travel distance table 3
Definition of wall 7.2 Wall and ceiling linings 7.4, table 10 Progressive horizontal evacuation 4.30
Material alteration 0.19 Notional boundaries 14.6, diagram 42 Provision of cavity barriers table 13
Materials and workmanship Definition appendix E Purpose groups table D1
Independent certification schemes Separation distances for roofs 15.5 Simultaneous evacuation 5.15
page 5 Noxious gases Outbuildings
Regulation 7 page 5 Fire spread B1.x Measuring floor area diagram C2
Materials of limited combustibility Nursing homes Overcladding 10.1
Class 0 appendix A(12) Means of escape [Link] External wall construction 13.7
Composite products appendix A(13) Overhanging storey
Concealed spaces 10.13
Construction of escape stairs 6.19
O See Perimeter of building
Occupancies Overhead obstructions
Definition appendix E Access of High reach appliances
Insulation above fire protecting See Mixed use, Separate occupancies
Occupant capacity 17.10, diagram 49
suspended ceilings table A3
Horizontal escape from buildings other
Insulation materials used in
external wall construction 13.7 than dwellings 4.5, 4.7, 4.9, 4.17 P
Junction of compartment wall Methods of measurement [Link] Partitions
with roof 9.29, diagram 28 Vertical escape from buildings other Cavity barriers 10.6
Reinforcing materials used for than dwellings Enclosing corridors 4.22
fire-stopping 11.13 Minimum width of escape stairs Fire resistance 6.3
Roofs table 17 5.10, table 6 Provision of cavity barriers in
Use appendix A(8), table A7 Offices bedrooms table 13
Means of escape Automatic fire detection and alarm See also Walls
Compartment walls 4.31, 9.18 systems 1.31 Pavement lights
Openings 9.33 Compartmentation 9.20 Smoke vent outlet terminal 19.11
Criteria [Link] Escape lighting table 9
Definition appendix E Fire doors table B1

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Performance Power supply Fire doors table B1
Access and facilities for fire Cables Fire protection of lift installations 6.42
service B5 page 99 Smoke alarms 1.17 Glazed screens 9.39-9.40, diagram 30
External fire spread B4 page 85 Mechanical ventilation for car parks 12.7 Openings 9.43
Internal fire spread Protected power circuits 6.38 Openings for pipes 11.5
Linings B2 page 56 Pressurization 3.26 Pipes for oil or gas 9.41
Structure B3 page 61 Compatibility with ventilation and Pipes passing through structure
Means of escape B1 page 11 air conditioning 6.48 enclosing protected shaft table 15
Protection systems, materials and Corridors 4.24 Ventilation of shafts conveying gas 9.42
structures 0.20 Ducts in protected shafts 9.41 Ventilating ducts 9.41
Ratings of some generic materials Private stair See also Firefighting shafts
and products table A8 See Stairs Protected stairways [Link]
Perimeter of building Progressive horizontal evacuation Air circulation systems for heating,
Definition appendix E 4.30-4.32, diagram 20 energy conservation or condensation
Example of footprint and perimeter Projecting upper storey control in buildings with a floor more
diagram 48 See Overhead obstructions than 4.5m above ground level
Fire service vehicle access table 20 Property protection 0.18 Flats and maisonettes 3.16
Permanent ventilation Protected corridors 4.21 Houses 2.15
See Ventilation Added protection for escape Common stairs 3.31- 3.39
Phased evacuation stairs 5.24 Definition appendix E
See Evacuation Dead end corridors diagram 19 Escape routes from common parts
Picture rails Definition appendix E of flats and maisonettes 3.29- 3.39
Definition of wall and ceiling 7.2-7.3 Escape routes for flats and maisonettes Escape stairs 5.1-5.31
Pipes Ancillary accommodation 3.27 Exits in central core diagram 18
Cavity barriers 10.14 Basements 3.42 External protection diagram 21
Compartment walls or floors Fire doors table B1 Fire doors table B1
9.33, 9.35 Phased evacuation 5.20 Fire protection of lift installations
Maximum nominal internal Protection of common escape 6.40- 6.41, 6.45
diameter 11.7, table 15 routes 3.22 Houses with floor more than
Definition appendix E Storeys divided into different 4.5m above ground level 2.13
Flame spread rating of insulation occupancies 4.14 Protected shafts 9.36-9.37
Maximum dimensions of Use of uninsulated glazed elements Containing pipes 9.41
concealed spaces 10.13 on escape routes table A4 Unprotected areas 14.8
Non-combustible materials table A6 Protected entrance halls Refuse chutes and rooms for refuse
Openings 11.5-11.9,11.12 Definition appendix E storage 6.51
Penetrating structure diagram 37 Escape from flats and maisonettes Roof space above in house with a
Protected shafts 9.37 3.11, 3.14, diagram 7, diagram 11 floor over 4.5m above ground level
Oil or gas 9.41 Fire doors forming part of enclosure diagram 33
Openings 9.43 in flat or maisonette table B1 Rooflights of thermoplastic
See also Gas service pipes Protected escape routes [Link] materials 7.13
Pitched roofs Corridors 4.21 Separation of circulation routes from
Measuring height diagram C3 Dead ends diagram 19 stairways 4.12
Notional designations of Discounting of stairs 5.11 Thermoplastic lighting diffusers in
coverings table A5 Escape stair needing added ceilings 7.16
Place of safety protection 5.24 Use of space below diffusers or
Enclosed space diagram 2 Phased evacuation 5.20 rooflight table 11
Inside building [Link] Protection and compartmentation 9.1 Use of uninsulated glazed elements
Progressive horizontal evacuation 4.31 Protection for buildings other than on escape routes table A4
Places of special fire hazard dwelling houses 6.2- 6.4 Vertical escape from buildings other
Compartmentation 9.5, 9.12 Storeys divided into different than dwellings 5.26-5.30
Definition appendix E occupancies 4.14 Protective barriers
Escape stairs 5.25 Protected landings Flat roof forming escape route
High risk and lift installations 6.43 Alternative exits from maisonettes 3.14 2.6, 6.35
Inner rooms 4.9 Definition appendix E PTFE-based materials 7.10
Limitation on travel distance table 3 Fire doors in flats or maisonettes Public address system 1.28
Smoke vents 19.9 table B1 Publications (excluding BSI)
Plant rooms Protected lobbies Approved Document:
Fixed ladders 6.22 Ancillary accommodation 3.27, 3.44 F Ventilation. 12.6, 12.7
Limitations on travel distance table 3 Definition appendix E J Combustion appliances & fuel
Plastics Discounting of stairs 5.12 storage. diagram 39, 15.9
Rooflights 7.7, 15.4, 15.6-15.7, Escape stairs 5.24-5.25 K Protecton from falling, collision &
table 11, table 18, table 19 Fire doors table B1 impact. 2.6, 2.11, 2.21, 5.7, 6.20,
Layout restrictions diagram 24 Fire protection of lift installations 6.23, 6.30, 6.35
Spacing and size diagram 47 6.42- 6.43 M Acces & facilities for disabled
Platform floors Number of escape routes 3.18 people. 4.16, table 5, table 6, 6.17,
Definition appendix E Phased evacuation 5.20 6.28, 6.30
Exclusions from elements of Planning of common escape routes 3.21 N Glazing – safety in relation to
structure 8.4 Refuse chutes and rooms for refuse impact, opening & cleaning. 6.9,
Plenum storage 6.51- 6.52 6.17, 7.12
Maximum dimensions of concealed Storey exits 4.11 Assessing the fire performance of
spaces 10.13 Use of uninsulated glazed elements external cladding systems: a test
Podium on escape routes table A4 method, BRE. 13.5
External escape stairs 3.46 Ventilation 6.52 Building Regulation and Fire Safety
Fire resistance of adjacent areas See also Lobbies – Procedural Guidance. [Link]
diagram 22 Protected power circuits 6.38 CE Marking Directive. page 5
Polycarbonate sheet Definition appendix E Construction fire safety. CIS 51.
TP(a) rigid and TP(b) appendix A(19) Protected shafts 5.23, 9.7, 9.36-9.43, page 6
Porches 18.1, diagram 29 Construction Products Directive.
Smoke alarms 1.16 Definition appendix E page 5
Portal frames 13.4 External wall of stairs in a protected Crown Fire Standards. 0.18
shaft 14.8, diagram 44

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INDEX B
Design, construction, specification Purpose groups appendix D Means of escape [Link], 4.29-4.32
and fire management of insulated Classification table D1 Inner rooms 4.9
envelopes for temperature controlled Definition appendix E Limitations on travel distance table 3
environments. IACSC. F(8) Fire safety 0.6 Single escape routes and exits 4.5
Design methodologies for smoke PVC sheet Minimum width of escape stairs table 6
and heat exhaust ventilation. BRE. TP(a) rigid appendix A(19) Provision of cavity barriers table 13
table 3, 12.7 Purpose groups table D1
Draft guide to fire precautions in
existing residential care premises.
Q Use of uninsulated glazed elements
on escape routes table A4
[Link] Quantitative techniques to evaluate Residential use
External fire spread: Building risk and hazard 0.15 Automatic fire detection and alarm
separation and boundary distances. Queueing areas systems 1.30
BRE. 14.15, 14.16, 14.20 Floor space factors table 1 Escape lighting table 9
Fire and steel construction: The Escape route design 4.4
behaviour of steel portal frames in R Protected corridors 4.21
boundary conditions. SCI. 13.4 Racking Mixed use 3.47- 3.48, 5.4
Firecode. [Link], 4.29, 4.30, table 3, See Storage and Other nonresidential Purpose groups table D1
9.32, table A2 Radiation Space separation 14.2
HTM 81. 0.17, [Link] Basis for calculating acceptable Acceptable unprotected areas 14.16
HTM 88. [Link] unprotected area 14.16 Notional boundaries 14.6
Fire performance of external thermal Discounting 14.2 Permitted unprotected areas in
insulation for walls of multi-storey Rafters small building or compartments
buildings. BRE. 13.7 Portal frames 13.4 14.19, 14.20, table 16, diagram 46
Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations Rain screen cladding Wall and ceiling linings 7.4, table 10
1997. 0.14, [Link], [Link], 1.24 Concealed spaces 10.1, 10.11 See also Flats and maisonettes,
Fire protection for structural steel in Provision of cavity barriers table 13 Other residential use, Residential
buildings. ASFP. A(5) Surface of the outer cladding facing (institutional) purpose, Dwelling houses
Fire safety in construction work, HSG the cavity 13.6 Restaurants
168. page 6 Raised storage Escape lighting table 9
Fire safety of PTFE-based materials Fire resistance 8.8-8.9 Floor space factors table 1
used in buildings. BRE. 7.10 See Storage and other Revolving doors
Gas Safety (Installation and Use) nonresidential See Doors and doorways
Regulations 1998. 3.39, 9.41 Ramps Rising fire mains
Guidelines for the construction of fire- Escape routes 6.27- 6.30 See Fire mains
resisting structural elements. BRE. A(1) Reading rooms Risk
Guide to fire precautions in existing Floor space factors table 1 Insurance 0.18
places of entertainment and like Reception desk Quantitative techniques of
premises. [Link] Protected stairways 5.29 evaluation 0.15
Guide to fire precautions in existing Recirculating distribution systems See also Places of special fire hazard
places of work that require a fire Mechanical ventilation 6.46 Rolling shutters 18.13, appendix B(2),
certificate. Factories, offices, shops Maximum dimensions of B(5), B(6)
& railway premises. table 3 concealed spaces 10.13 Roof coverings
Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds. Recreation Concealed spaces between insulated
[Link] See Assembly and recreation roof sheeting 10.11
Hardware essential to the optimum purpose group Cavity barriers diagram 36
performance of fire-resisting timber Refuges External fire spread 15.1-15.9
doorsets. ABHM. B(12) Means of escape for disabled Separation distances for roofs
Heat radiation from fires and building [Link], table A4 table 17
separation. Fire Research Technical Refuse chutes 6.50- 6.52 Junction of compartment wall with
Paper 5. 14.16 Non-combustible materials table A6 roof 9.28-9.31, diagram 28
Houses in multiple occupation Openings in compartment walls or Materials of limited combustibility
DOE Circular 12/92. 2.3 floors 9.35 table A7
DOE Circular 12/93. 2.3 Protected shafts 9.37 Notional designations table A5
WO Circular 25/92. 2.3 Refuse hoppers 6.50 Roof space
WO Circular 55/93. 2.3 Refuse storage chambers Concealed space 10.1
Increasing the fire resistance of Access 6.53 Over protected stairway in house
existing timber floors. BRE Digest 208. Compartment walls 9.15 with a floor over 4.5m above ground
table A1 Location of final exits 6.34 level diagram 33
LPC Design guide for the fire Relevant boundaries 13.1,14.4-14.5, See also Loft conversions
protection of buildings. 0.18 diagram 41 Roof terraces
Pipelines Safety Regulations 1996. Definition appendix E Means of escape 2.24
3.39, 9.41 External walls 1000mm or more from Roof windows
Safety signs & signals. relevant boundary 14.14 Emergency egress from single family
Health & Safety (Safety signs External walls within 1000mm from houses 2.11, diagram 6
& signals) Regulations 1996. relevant boundary 14.13 Rooflights
Guidance on Regulations. 6.37 Other method for calculating Definition appendix E
Thatched buildings. New properties acceptable unprotected area 14.20 Definition of ceiling 7.3
and extensions. 15.9 Portal frame building near Loft conversions 2.24, diagram 6
Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) boundary 13.4 Methods of measurement diagram C2
Regulations 1992, Approved Code of Separation distances for roof 15.5, Plastic 7.7, 15.4, 15.6-15.7, table 11,
Practice and Guidance. page 6 table 17 table 18, table 19
Pumping appliances Small residential method 14.19 Layout restrictions diagram 24
Dry fire mains 17.6 Residential (institutional) purpose Limitations on spacing and size
Fire fighting vehicle access 17.1 Automatic fire detection and alarm diagram 47
Access route specification table 21 systems 1.30 Thermoplastic 7.11, 7.13,
Blocks of flats/maisonettes 17.3 Compartmentation 9.16-9.18 appendix A(18), table 11
Buildings not fitted with fire External escape stairs 5.33 Layout restrictions diagram 24
mains table 20 Hospitals 0.17 Unwired glass 15.8
Replenishing wet fire mains 16.1, 17.7

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B INDEX
Roofs 15.2 Services Small premises
Concealed spaces between Penetrating cavity barriers 10.9 Enclosure of escape stairs 5.23
insulated roof sheeting 10.11 See also Air conditioning, Ducts, Means of escape 4.1
Cavity barriers diagram 36 Pipes, Ventilation Smoke and fumes
Elements of structure [Link], 8.4 Shafts Alarms in dwellings 1.2-1.22
Escape over 2.5, 3.28, 4.28, 6.35 Fire-resisting construction for smoke Installation 1.4-1.22
External escape stairs 3.46 outlet shafts 19.15-19.16, diagram 53 Basement smoke vents 19.1-19.17
Fire resistance of adjacent areas See also Fire fighting shafts, Fire-resisting construction for
diagram 22 Protected shafts smoke outlet shafts diagram 53
Fire resistance 6.3, appendix A(6) Sheltered housing Ceiling level smoke vents in car
Junction of compartment wall with Central alarm monitoring 1.10 parks 12.6
roof 9.28-9.31, diagram 28 Means of escape 3.6 Control systems 0.14, [Link], 3.26
Materials of limited combustibility Shopping complexes Discounting of stairs 5.12
table A7 Compartmentation 9.20, 12.8 Protected lobbies 5.25
Measuring Firefighting shafts 18.6 Shopping malls table 3
area diagram C2 Floor space factors table 1 Final exits clear of basement
height diagram C3 Internal fire spread 12.8-12.9 smoke vents 6.34
Rooftop plant Limitations on travel distance table 3 Fire spread B1.x
Height of top storey in building C5 Means of escape [Link] Retarding by sealing or
Limitations on travel distance Shop and commercial purpose group firestopping 11.3
table 3 Automatic fire detection and alarm Fire spread and lining materials B2.i
See also Flat roofs, Pitched roofs systems 1.31 Lift machine room fires 6.45
Rooms Compartmentation 9.20 Smoke leakage of fire doors at
Definition appendix E Escape lighting table 9 ambient temperatures appendix B(1),
Measuring floor area diagram C2 Floor space factors table 1 table B1
Limitations on travel distance table 3 Smoke reservoirs 6.41
S Maximum dimensions of building or
compartment table 12
Ventilation of common escape
routes 3.23
Safety of Sports Grounds Act 1975 Panic bolts 6.12 Space separation 14.1-14.20
[Link] Provision of cavity barriers table 13 Roofs 15.5, table 17
Sanitary accommodation Purpose groups table D1 Unprotected areas disregarded
Protected shafts 9.37 Small shops see Small premises in assessing separation distance
Protected stairways 5.29 Space separation diagram 44
Sanitary towel incinerators Acceptable unprotected areas 14.16 Special applications 7.8-7.10
Protected stairways 5.29 Permitted unprotected areas Spiral stairs
Schools in small buildings or Escape routes 6.22- 6.23
See Educational buildings compartments table 16 Sports grounds
Seals Store rooms 6.54 Means of escape [Link]
Fire resistance 11.2 Showers Sprinkler systems 5.20
Proprietary seals 11.14 Inner rooms 2.4 Discounting of stairs 5.13
Pipes 11.6 Smoke alarms 1.16 Maximum dimensions of building
Seating Signs or compartment
See Fixed seating See Exit signs, Fire safety signs Non-residential buildings table 12
Seatways Simultaneous evacuation Mechanical smoke extract 19.13
Measuring travel distance [Link] See Evacuation Number and location of firefighting
Security Single stair buildings shafts 18.7, table 22
Conflict with requirements for means Added protection for escape stair 5.24 Portal frames 13.4
of escape [Link] Common escape route diagram 12, Space separation 14.2
Security fastenings diagram 14 Boundary distance 14.17
Common escape routes diagram 14 Construction of escape stairs 6.19 Permitted unprotected areas in small
Doors on escape routes 6.11- 6.12 Continuation of lift down to building or compartments table 16
Self-closing devices basement storey 6.44 Stability B3 requirement page 60
See Automatic self-closing devices Location of lift machine rooms 6.45 Staff rooms
Self-contained smoke alarms Small buildings 3.19 Floor space factors table 1
See Smoke Ventilation of common escape Staff training
Self-supporting sheets routes 3.23 Powers to require 0.14
Designation of pitched roof coverings Single steps Stage grids
table A5 Escape routes 6.21 See Galleries
Semi-detached houses B3 requirement Single storey buildings Stairs
page 60 Definition appendix E Accommodation stairs 5.23
Compartment walls 9.13 Fire resistance of elements of Alternative exits from flats and
Separation distances 15.5 structure 8.3, table A2 maisonettes 3.15
Separate occupancies/uses See also Single family houses, Basement
Compartment walls and Sheltered housing Means of escape 3.40- 3.42, 5.32
compartment floors 9.20 Skating rinks Continuing beyond the level of
Corridors 4.21 Floor space factors table 1 final exit 6.33
Division of storeys 4.13, 4.14 Skirtings Design 6.20
Openings in compartment walls 9.33 Definition of wall 7.2 Escape stairs 5.1-5.34
Separated parts of buildings 9.5, 9.24 Slates or tiles Capacity for basements and
Definition appendix E Designation of pitched roof simultaneous evacuation table 7
Separation coverings table A5 Construction 6.19
See Fire separation, Space separation Fire stopping junctions 10.8 Continuing lift down to
Separation distances Sleeping accommodation basement 6.44
Buildings with sprinkler systems 14.17 Fire protection of lift installations 6.43 Lighting 6.36
Canopies 14.11, diagram 45 See also Bedrooms, Dormitories Width table 6
Compartment size 14.3 Sleeping galleries 2.9, 3.2 Width where designed for
Roofs 15.5, table 17 Sleeving non-combustible pipes 11.9 phased evacuation table 8
Unprotected areas which may be Slipperiness
disregarded diagram 44 Floors of escape routes 6.25

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INDEX B
External escape 3.15, 3.45- 3.46, Storeys Toilets
4.26, 5.33-5.34, 6.25 Definition appendix E Escape lighting table 9
Fire resistance of adjacent areas Divided into different Exits in central core diagram 18
diagram 22 occupancies 4.14 TP(a) flexible
Materials of limited uses 4.13 Classification of performance
combustibility 6.19 Height of top storey diagram C5 B2.v, appendix A(19)
Firefighting 3.32, 5.3, 5.29, 6.19, 18.1 Number diagram C4 TP(a) rigid
Approach through firefighting Stretched skin ceilings Classification of performance
lobby 18.9 Thermoplastic material 7.17 B2.v, appendix A(19)
Components of firefighting shaft Strong rooms Glazing external windows 7.12
diagram 52 Smoke vents 19.5 TP(b)
Fire spread by upper surfaces [Link] Structural frames Classification of performance
Helical and spiral 6.22- 6.23 Elements of structure [Link] B2.v, appendix A(19)
Horizontal escape from buildings Fire resistance 8.2 Rooflights and lighting diffusers
other than dwellings 4.3 Student residential accomodation Layout restrictions diagram 24
Limited combustibility materials Automatic fire detection and alarm Transfer of excessive heat
table A7 systems 1.9 Insulation from high temperatures
Loft conversions 2.18, 2.21 Structural loadbearing elements [Link], appendix A(5)
Public stair 6.22 See Elements of structure Transformer chambers
Serving accommodation ancillary Stud walls Final exits clear of openings 6.34
to flats and maisonettes Cavity barriers 10.6 See also Place of special fire hazard
Means of escape 3.43- 3.44 Study bedrooms Trap doors
Treads of steps 6.27 Floor space factors table 1 See Doors and doorways
See also Common stairs Substrates Travel distance [Link]
Stairways Lining to wall or ceiling appendix A(17) Definition appendix E
Door opening 6.16 Surface spread of flame Horizontal escape from buildings
Escape lighting table 9 Internal linings appendix A(10)-A(12), other than dwellings 4.2, 4.5, 4.6, 4.9,
Measuring travel distance [Link] A(15) table 3
Measuring width [Link] Susceptibility to ignition Dead end diagram 15
Primary circulation routes 4.12 External walls 13.2 Means of escape from flats and
See also Protected stairways Suspended ceilings maisonettes 3.11, 3.18, diagram 8,
Stallboard Concealed spaces 10.1 diagrams 12-14, table 2
Fire-resisting construction for Wall and ceiling surfaces Methods of measurement [Link]
smoke vent shafts diagram 53 exposed 7.16 Vertical escape from buildings
Smoke vent outlet terminal 19.11 Definition appendix E other than dwellings 5.23
Standard fire tests Enclosure of corridors by partitions 4.22 Travelators
See Fire tests Lighting diffusers 7.14, table 11 See Mechanised walkways
Standing spectator areas Limited combustibility materials Treads
Floor space factors table 1 table A7 See Stairs
Steps (single) Non-combustible materials table A6 Turning circles
Escape routes 6.21 Thermoplastic material 7.17, Fire service vehicle access route
Storage and other non-residential appendix A(18) specification 17.11, table 21
Automatic fire detection and alarm Use of fire protecting suspended Turnstiles
systems 1.31 ceilings table A3 Escape routes 6.18
Compartmentation 9.20 Switch room/battery room Turntable ladders
Escape lighting table 9 Escape lighting table 9 See High Reach appliances
Fire service vehicle access to buildings
without fire mains table 20
Floor space factors table 1
T U
Interpretation of purpose groups Tall buildings UKAS
appendix D(1) Added protection for escape stairs 5.24 Accredited laboratories appendix A(1)
Limitations on travel distance table 3 External walls 13.2 Independent certification schemes
Maximum dimensions of building or Width of escape stairs 5.6 page 5
compartment table 12 Phased evacuation 5.18 Underground accommodation
Provision of cavity barriers table 13 Telephone system Escape lighting table 9
Purpose groups table D1 Phased evacuation 5.20 Uninsulated glazing
Space separation Tenancies See Glazing
Acceptable unprotected areas 14.16 See Separate occupancies Unobstructed openings
Permitted unprotected areas in Terrace house B3 requirement page 60 Means of escape in single family
small building or compartments Compartment walls 9.13 houses 2.11
table 16 Theatres Unprotected areas 14.1
Roofs table 17 Means of escape [Link] Areas disregarded in assessing
Widths of escape routes 4.16, table 5 Thermoplastic materials separation distance diagram 44
Stores appendix A(16)-A(19) Boundaries 14.4
Fire protection of lift installations 6.43 Classification B2.v Combustible material as external
In shops 6.54 Definition appendix E surface 14.9, diagram 43
Raised storage areas 8.8-8.9 Glazing 7.12 Definition appendix E
Refuse storage 6.50- 6.53 Lighting diffusers forming part of a External wall of protected shaft
Compartment walls 9.15 ceiling 7.14-7.16 forming stairway 14.8
Storey exits 4.1 Lighting diffusers in suspended External wall within 1000mm of
Access in buildings other than ceilings 7.11, table 11 relevant boundary 14.13
dwellings 4.11, 4.24 Rooflights 7.11, 7.13, 15.6-15.7, External wall 1000mm or more from
Definition appendix E table 11, table 18, table 19 relevant boundary 14.14-14.20
Discounting 4.19 Suspended or stretched skin Permitted unprotected areas in
Escape over flat roofs 6.35 ceiling 7.17 small buildings or compartments
Leading into an enclosed space TP(b) rooflights and lighting diffusers 14.20, table 16
diagram 2 Layout restrictions diagram 24 Permitted unprotected areas in
Tiers small residential buildings 14.19,
Pitch 6.29 diagram 46
Tiles Fire resistance 14.7
See Slates or tiles

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B INDEX
Large uncompartmented Warehouses
buildings 14.12 See Storage and other non-residential
Small unprotected areas 14.10, Warning 0.14
diagram 44 Escape from
Unwired glass flats and maisonettes 3.1
Rooflights 15.8 houses 2.1
Utility rooms Phased evacuation 5.20
Inner rooms 2.4 Smoke alarms 1.1
Washrooms
V Protected shafts 9.37
Protected stairways 5.29
Vehicle access Water supply pipes
See Fire service facilities Enclosure diagram 38
Ventilation WCs
Basement smoke vents 19.1-19.17 Inner rooms 2.4
Escape routes 19.12 Weather protection
Final exits 6.34 External escape stairs 6.25
Fire-resisting construction for Wet mains
smoke outlet shafts diagram 53 See Fire mains
Car parks 12.2, 12.4-12.7, 19.17 Wind loads
Ducts and integrity of compartments Elements of structure [Link]
11.10-11.11 Windowless accommodation
Ducts in protected shafts 9.41 Escape lighting table 9
Openings in enclosure 9.43 Windows
Escape routes for flats or maisonettes Definition of wall and ceiling 7.2-7.3
3.23, 3.26, diagram 12, diagram 13, Emergency egress in dwelling
diagram 14 houses 2.11
Lobbies 5.25 Loft conversions 2.23
Mechanical 6.46- 6.49 Thermoplastic materials A(18)
Concealed space used as a Glazing 7.12
plenum 10.13 Wiring
Smoke extract 19.13-19.14 See Electrical wiring
Openings in compartment walls Workmanship
or floors 9.35 See Materials and workmanship
Protected shafts 9.38 Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Conveying gas 9.42 Regulations 1992 page 6
Ventilating ducts 9.41 Workshops
Rooms containing refuse chutes Floor space factors table 1
or for the storage of refuse 6.52
Venues for pop concerts
Floor space factors table 1
Verges
Roof measurements diagram C2
Vertical escape
See Stairs, Stairways
Vision panels
Doors on escape routes 6.17
Inner rooms
Buildings other than dwellings 4.9
Voice alarm system 1.28, 5.20
Volume of building or part
Measurement diagram C1

W
Waiting rooms
Floor space factors table 1
Walkways
See Mechanised walkways
Wall climber
Fire protection of lift installations 6.41
Walls
Cavity barriers in stud walls or
partitions 10.6
Cavity walls excluded diagram 32
Concealed spaces 10.11
Elements of structure [Link]
Fire resistance 6.3, 8.2, 13.3, table A1
In common to two buildings
Calculating perimeter diagram 48
Compartmentation 9.10, 9.23
Inner rooms
Buildings other than dwellings 4.9
Linings B2.i, 7.1, 7.4
Definition 7.2, 7.12
Surfaces within the space above
suspended ceilings 7.16
See also Cavity walls, Compartment
walls, External walls

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Approved Documents
The following Approved Document has been
approved for the purposes of the Building
Regulations 1991 as amended by the Building
Regulations (Amendment) (No 2) Regulations 1999
and will take effect on 1 July 2000.

B Fire safety, 2000 edition.

The following Approved Documents continue to

be approved for the purposes of the Building
Regulations 1991 (as amended).

A Structure, 1992 edition (with requirement A4

deleted 1994).
C Site preparation and resistance to moisture,
1992 edition.
D Toxic substances, 1985 edition, (amended 1992).
E Resistance to the passage of sound, 1992 edition.
F Ventilation, 1995 edition.
G Hygiene, 1992 edition.
H Drainage and waste disposal, 1990 edition,
(amended 1992).
J Heat producing appliances, 1990 edition,
(amended 1992).
K Protection from falling, collision and impact,
1998 edition.
L Conservation of fuel and power, 1995 edition.
M Access and facilities for disabled people,
1999 edition.
N Glazing – Safety in relation to impact, opening
and cleaning, 1998 edition.

Regulation 7 Materials and workmanship,

1999 edition.

Note that Approved Documents to Part E, H, J and L

are all under active review.

Manual to the Building Regulations

Second Impression

Approved Documents – Non-Departmental

Timber Intermediate Floors for Dwellings

(excluding compartment floors)
1992 edition available from: TRADA
– Tel: 01494 563091

Basements for Dwellings

1997 edition available from:
British Cement Association
– Tel: 01344 725704

Approved Document B Fire safety

149