New Sprinkler and Wayfinding guidance published

The government has published amendments to Approved Document B of the Building Regulations Fire Safety Volume 1 Dwellings.
There are two main important changes:

  • Blocks of flats with their top storey more than 11m above ground level should be fitted with a sprinkler system throughout the building.
  • Wayfinding signage for the fire service should be provided in all blocks of flats with a top storey more than 11m above ground level. Floor identification signs should be provided on every landing of a protected stairway and every protected corridor/lobby into which a firefighting lift opens. Flat indicator signs to identify flat numbers should also be used and supplemented by arrows where necessary.  Guidance is given on the location, font and size of signage.

The changes apply to new-build, changes of use, material alterations and extensions. The changes in the amendment take effect on 26 November 2020 and MHCLG has announced the transitional provisions:

  • Where an Initial Notice has been served before 26 November 2020 and the work has started before 29 January 2021, the 2019 Approved Document B will apply.
  • Where an Initial Notice has been served after 26 November 2020 or the work has not started before 29 January 2021, the 2020 amendments will apply.