BS 9991 is a code of practice that provides detailed guidance on ensuring fire safety in residential buildings. First introduced in 2011, it has become a foundational reference for achieving fire protection measures, safeguarding lives, and minimising property damage during fire incidents.

The standard applies to various building types, including flats, apartment blocks, and residential care homes. Its primary goals are:

• Ensuring adequate life safety during fires, prioritising occupant safety, firefighter safety, and the protection of emergency responders.
• Safeguarding properties, including neighbouring buildings, businesses, and the surrounding environment.

By offering a unified approach to fire safety, BS 9991 bridges gaps in regulatory frameworks across the UK and provides comprehensive solutions for fire safety challenges.

Key Changes in BS 9991:2024

The 2024 revision incorporates significant updates to address modern building complexities and advancements in fire safety research. Key updates include:

• Expanded scope: Residential care homes are now included, recognising their specific evacuation and fire safety challenges.
• Changes to timber usage: Restrictions on the reaction-to-fire classifications for load-bearing timber elements have been removed, reflecting current evidence on mass timber use in medium and high-rise residential buildings.
• Revised sprinkler and single-stair guidance: Updates introduce a new height limit for single-stair buildings and refine sprinkler installation recommendations.
• European fire door classifications: National classifications are replaced with European standards for greater consistency and reliability.
• Enhanced smoke control and evacuation lift recommendations: Improved provisions for tall buildings ensure better safety during fire emergencies.
• Updates to ancillary areas, kitchens, and external wall systems: Revised guidance incorporates the latest safety practices for these critical areas.

These updates ensure that BS 9991:2024 remains a robust and practical framework for modern residential fire safety.

Why Adopt BS 9991:2024?

The updated standard offers the most current and comprehensive recommendations for residential fire safety, ensuring a high level of protection for occupants and properties. Key benefits include:

• Addressing modern complexities such as high-rise and mixed-use structures.
• Providing future-proof solutions by integrating the latest advancements in fire safety knowledge.
• Offering practical and actionable guidance for fire safety in residential buildings.

Who Should Use BS 9991:2024?

This revised standard is essential for professionals involved in new building design, material alterations, extensions, and changes of use in existing structures. Key users include:

• Designers and Architects: Clear guidance for integrating fire safety into building designs using the latest technologies and methods.
• Fire Safety Engineers and Risk Assessors: Detailed methodologies for tackling emerging fire safety challenges.
• Building Owners and Managers: Tools to maintain legal compliance, reduce liability, and protect residents and properties.
• Fire and Rescue Services: Standardised procedures that enhance firefighting and rescue efficiency.

Whether designing a new building or making modifications to an existing one, BS 9991:2024 equips professionals with the tools to comply with fire safety regulations and mitigate risks effectively.

FIA members will receive a discounted rate on this standard once it has been released at the FIA eshop. For more updates, expert insights, and guidance on fire safety, sign up to the FIA newsletter today.