Introduction

The following information is intended to introduce the key elements of Part B: Fire Safety. Wherever possible the relevant document contents or sections are included with each set of regulations.

Use the link below for the full building regulations document;

• Note: All information is current as of January 2006, as is subject to change.

Means of warning and escape

The building shall be designed and constructed so that there are appropriate provisions for the early warning of fire, and appropriate means of escape in case of fire from the building to a place of safety outside the building capable of being safely and effectively used at all material times.
Part B.1.-(1): Means of Warning and Escape

Section 1: Fire alarm and fire detection systems
Section 2: Dwellinghouses
Section 3: Flats and maisonettes
Section 4: Design for horizontal escape – buildings other than dwellings
Section 5: Design for vertical escape – buildings other than dwellings
Section 6: General provisions common to buildings other than dwellinghouses

Internal fire spread

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, either a rate of heat release or a rate of fire growth, which is reasonable in the circumstances.
B2.-(1) Internal fire spread (linings)

In this paragraph “internal linings” means the materials or products used in lining any partition, wall, ceiling or other internal structure.
B2.-(2) Internal fire spread (linings)

The building shall be designed and constructed so that, in the event of fire, its stability will be maintained for a reasonable period.
Part B.3.-(1): Wall and Ceiling Linings

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.
Part B.3.-(2): Wall and Ceiling Linings

To inhibit the spread of fire within the building, it shall be sub-divided with fire-resisting construction to an extent appropriate to the size and intended use of the building.
Part B.3.-(3): Wall and Ceiling Linings

The building shall be designed and constructed so that the unseen spread of fire and smoke within concealed spaces in its structure and fabric is inhibited.
Part B.3.-(4): Wall and Ceiling Linings

Section 7: Wall and ceiling linings
Section 8: Loadbearing elements of structure
Section 9: Compartmentation
Section 10: Concealed spaces (cavities)
Section 11: Protection of openings and fire stopping
Section 12: Special provisions for car parks and shopping complexes

External fire spread

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.
B4.-(1) External Fire Spread

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.
B4.-(2) External Fire Spread

Section 13: Construction of external walls
Section 14: Space separation
Section 15: Roof coverings

Access and facilities for the fire service

The building shall be designed and constructed so as to provide reasonable facilities to assist fire fighters in the protection of life.
B5.-(1) Access and facilities for the fire service

Reasonable provision shall be made within the site of the
building to enable fire appliances to gain access to the building.
B5.-(2) Access and facilities for the fire service

Section 16: Fire Mains
Section 17: Vehicle access
Section 18: Access to buildings for firefighting personnel
Section 19: Venting of heat and smoke from basements

Further information and useful links

• Making structural changes to your property
• Full guide to the building regulations
• Windows & doors topics

• Find a Builder near you
• Find an Architect near you
• Find an Chartered Surveyor near you

• Building Regulations an explanatory booklet (odpm.gov.uk)
• Party Wall Guidance (rics.org)
• Impact of the Party Wall Act 1996 (odpm.gov.uk)