April 2024 Amends to Approved Document B
Bijan Fard
May 1, 2024
As an experienced fire engineering expert for developers and building contractors, we understand the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the construction industry. Our mission is to empower our clients with regulatory and legislation insights, technical know-how, and innovative solutions that ensure their project is not only compliant but cost-effective.
At FDS Consult UK, we recognise that each construction project is unique, presenting its own set of challenges and opportunities. Our team of experienced fire engineering consultants brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in providing tailored solutions for various construction endeavours. Whether you’re embarking on a new project, facing complexities in ongoing construction, or seeking ways to optimise efficiency and cost-effectiveness, our consulting services are designed to address your specific needs.
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Following the tragedy at Grenfell Tower in June 2017 there was a reform of the Building Safety Regulatory System, which recommended the implementation of a New Planning Gateway, so improved safety measures could be assured before planning permission is granted.
FDS Consult UK offers consultation on for your next project, to ensure the smooth application process for each of the newly introduced planning gateways.
As per The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 it is a legal obligation that the responsible person for both non-domestic and multi-occupied residential buildings must provide an plan. The evacuation plan must include a safe means of escape for all persons on the premises.
A Fire Emergency Evacuation Plan (FEEP) is a document which outlines the method for evacuating the premisses during a fire. Typically, it includes detailed instructions on the means of escape and procedure following the evacuation.
When evaluating the fire safety of your building, it is important to consider firefighting provisions. These provisions typically include the applicable design standards for external vehicle access, hydrants, location and number of access points, firefighting lifts, internal access, dry/wet rising fire mains, etc.
FDS Consult UK can help you evaluate current Fire Service access and advise as to the applicable engineering solutions available to satisfy both the Building Regulations and the relevant Local Fire Authority.
When looking to construct a building, be it new build – commercial or residential, its primary aim should be to ensure the safety of the building’s occupants. By engaging with our consultants early in the construction process, this can be achieved while also maximising space and improving cost efficiencies.
Approved Document B (ADB) is a part of the building regulations in the United Kingdom.
It provides guidance on fire safety measures for buildings, covering aspects such as means of escape, fire resistance of materials and structures, and the installation of fire detection and firefighting equipment.
ADB is intended to ensure that buildings are designed and constructed with appropriate measures to minimize the risk of fire and protect occupants.
Modern Methods of Construction refers to the integrated procedures which have been established to decrease build times. Prefabrication and modularisation are particularly popular methods of MMC, nonetheless, the development and use of new materials such as glass fibre reinforced concrete, prestressed reinforced concrete beams and reinforced concrete blocks is also applicable.
A fire safety policy is a document which outlines the potential fire safety risks to a building and the precautious necessary to keep occupants safe. The fire safety policy must also demonstrate a clear evacuation plan, including clearly marked up escape routes, emergency lighting, a clear passageway to all escape routes and a safe meeting point for employees.
Buildings must also have a Responsible Person appointed to develop and uphold the fire safety policies and procedures in place. It is a legal requirement for the Responsible Person to ensure that a competent person produces a fire risk assessment for the building.
The law (Regulatory Reform Order 2005) stipulates that the responsible person for a building has an obligation to uphold its fire safety procedures to ensure the safety of its occupants. Fire safety audits are an appropriate method of inspecting the fire safety procedures of a building. The assessment typically involves reviewing all relevant fire safety documentation and ensuring it is fit for use.
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