The government has announced key changes to Part B of the Building Regulations to help fire fighters tackle blazes in tall and large buildings.

The revisions to the fire safety regulation and its supporting guidance, Approved Document B, include the introduction of a maximum unsprinklered compartment size for single storey warehouses, new guidance on residential care homes (including the use of sprinklers) and a new requirement to ensure occupiers are made aware of their building’s fire protection measures so as to assist in the preparation of fire risk assessments under the new Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order regime.

Fire and Building Regulations minister, Angela Smith, said: “This package represents a better, more focused regulation that will deliver real benefits for both occupants and fire fighters alike. It considers the important role sprinklers and other types of fire protection may have, particularly in buildings where occupants are most at risk from fire.”

The changes will come into force on 6 April 2007.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor