Your Guide To Fire Safety In The UK
Fire safety – it’s not merely a requirement but an absolute necessity in the United Kingdom. Our lives, homes, and commercial assets are at risk if we fail to adhere to the UK’s comprehensive fire safety regulations.
This guide from Axis Fire Sprinklers provides you with an in-depth understanding of these regulations and guidelines, particularly emphasizing standards like the British Standard BS 5839 for fire alarm systems in commercial buildings, the pivotal Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and the vital changes post the Grenfell Tower incident.
Commercial Buildings
For commercial spaces such as offices, retail outlets, and storage spaces, adherence to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is crucial.
This regulatory framework requires the appointment of a ‘responsible person’ for each building, who will undertake a thorough fire risk assessment, and determine the fire safety equipment necessary, which may include fire sprinklers.
Best Practices & Regulations
When it comes to the installation of sprinkler systems in commercial buildings, the risk assessment is your main guide. However, compliance with BS EN 12845 is considered a best practice that ensures the highest level of safety and compliance.
BS EN 12845 details the design, installation, and upkeep of automatic sprinkler systems and needs to be abided by in all commercial premises across the UK.
This is the guideline that informs our work, installations and maintenance services.
Residential Buildings
In the residential sector, from individual houses to apartment complexes, Building Regulations Approved Document B (Fire Safety) primarily guides the installation of fire sprinklers.
Various aspects like the structure’s dimensions, height, and layout generally dictate the implementation of fire sprinklers.
Strengthening Fire Safety Post-Grenfell
The devastating Grenfell Tower fire led to significant changes in fire safety measures.
Now, the threshold for compulsory sprinkler systems in new residential buildings has been lowered from 30 meters to 11 meters, covering buildings over four storeys high.
Wales’ Approach To Fire Safety
Wales has revolutionised fire safety by mandating fire sprinklers in all new and converted residential properties from 1 January 2016, according to the Domestic Fire Safety (Wales) Regulations 2013.
This path-breaking regulation reflects a commendable commitment to enhancing fire safety standards in residential structures.
Installation & Maintenance: The Key To Safety
The installation of fire sprinkler systems, whether commercial or residential, necessitates expert knowledge and accuracy.
Regular inspections, testing, and maintenance, in line with BS EN 12845 and BS 9251, ensure their operational integrity and readiness to function in emergencies.
Axis Fire Sprinkler Systems
To ensure the utmost safety and compliance with these complex fire safety regulations, partnering with industry veterans like Axis is essential.
We offer cutting-edge fire safety systems, tailor-made to suit specific building requirements. Our fire suppression systems are rigorously compliant with BS EN 12845 for commercial properties and BS 9251 for residential spaces.
Contact Us
Ready to enhance the fire safety profile of your building? Do not compromise with safety, get in touch with us today.
Compliance with the UK’s stringent fire safety regulations not only fulfils your legal obligations but provides you with the precious peace of mind you deserve.
