The British Standards Institution (BSI) has introduced the updated fire safety standard, BS 9991:2024, aimed at bolstering fire safety measures in residential buildings. This revision replaces the 2015 version and incorporates new guidance on escape routes, fire control systems, and other crucial safety measures following extensive industry consultations.
The new code, titled Fire Safety in the Design, Management, and Use of Residential Buildings – Code of Practice , provides recommendations to mitigate the effects of fire, safeguard life, and protect property. It also addresses the impact of external fires on residential structures, aligning with fire safety regulations across the UK, including Approved Document B (England and Wales), Technical Handbook 2 (Scotland), and Technical Booklet E (Northern Ireland).
Key Updates In BS 9991:2024
The revised standard introduces several important changes, including:
– Inclusion Of Residential Care Homes : Expanding the scope to address specific fire safety needs in such facilities.
Guidance On Evacuation Lifts : Offering detailed recommendations to enhance evacuation procedures.
Revised Sprinkler & Stairwell Standards : Lower height thresholds for mandatory sprinkler installation and updated provisions for single-stair buildings.
The updates, although part of routine revisions, also consider findings from the **Grenfell Tower Inquiry** ahead of its final report in September 2024.
Industry Response
Scott Steedman, BSI’s Director-General of Standards, acknowledged the Grenfell tragedy’s pivotal role in shaping these updates. He remarked, “The Grenfell tragedy and the subsequent inquiry have brought the issue of building safety into focus… The updated BS 9991 guides the design, installation, and maintenance of fire safety systems in residential buildings, ensuring effective escape routes and fire safety measures are in place to protect occupants and enhance overall safety.”
This revision underscores the commitment to adapting fire safety standards to reflect the latest research and best practices, ensuring safer residential environments across the UK.
