Joint Code of Practice updated to enhance fire safety on UK construction sites
Iain Hoey
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Fire safety update announced for UK construction and renovation projects
The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has reported the publication of a second amendment to the tenth edition of the Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) on the Protection from Fire of Construction Sites and Buildings Undergoing Renovation.
The amendment was published in May 2025 and includes updates to section 13 of the Code, covering temporary buildings and temporary accommodation.
Originally introduced in 1992, the JCoP is produced by RISCAuthority with support from the Association of British Insurers, National Fire Chiefs Council, London Fire Brigade, Contractors Legal Group, and Construction Industry Publications.
The Code aims to ensure that fire risks are addressed through detection, prevention, and safe working practices across all phases of a project.
The latest changes were made to support fire safety practices in line with new construction methods, materials and standards.
Changes to section 13 address temporary structures
According to the FPA, the May 2025 revision introduced several updates to improve guidance around the placement and construction of temporary buildings.
Section 13.3 was clarified, with part (a) specifically revised to address requirements when temporary structures are located above the site or highway.
A new clause, 13.3(b), allows the use of LPCB LPS 1195 testing for full-scale cabins or modules as an alternative to individual element testing.
Clause 13.3(e) was removed on the grounds that it was no longer necessary.
Clause 13.3(f) was amended to provide an alternative option for installing automatic self-closing devices on doors and windows, with new references to shutters.
The penultimate paragraph in section 13.3 has been incorporated into a new list at clause (k).
Section 13.6 was revised to clarify the fire resistance requirements of supporting elements used in stacked temporary structures.
Code supports prevention at all construction stages
The JCoP applies to design, planning, procurement and construction activities, providing a framework to reduce fire risks on sites.
The Code recommends that detection and prevention strategies are considered early in project planning.
It promotes design strategies that eliminate fire risks and encourages safe site practices throughout a project’s duration.
The overall aim is to ensure the safety of both buildings and occupants during construction and renovation.
The guidance is relevant to all parties involved in construction, including designers, contractors, insurers, and fire and rescue services.
Previous amendments addressed broader risks
The tenth edition of the Code was issued in 2022 and expanded to reflect modern risks and construction practices.
Amendment 1 was published in January 2023 and included updates on definitions and on construction phase procedures.
It also added guidance on electric vehicle charging, high-rise construction, and large timber frame structures.
Sections relating to temporary buildings, which have now been revised again, were part of the January 2023 update.
These earlier changes reflected industry demand for practical guidance on emerging technologies and methods.
Joint Code continues to adapt to industry standards
Technical Director for the FPA, George Edwardes, commented on the publication of the latest amendment.
Edwardes said: “We are pleased to be releasing this updated edition of the Joint Code of Practice for fire prevention on construction sites. Reflecting the changes in standards and practices, whilst also acknowledging the more prevalent use of modern materials and construction methods, we hope the amendments will help users ensure adequate detection and prevention measures are in place on construction sites and in buildings undergoing refurbishment.”
Joint Code of Practice updated to enhance fire safety on UK construction sites: Summary
The Fire Protection Association reported the publication of Amendment 2 to the Joint Code of Practice in May 2025.
The Code is jointly produced by RISCAuthority with support from several industry and regulatory bodies.
Amendment 2 introduces changes to section 13 on temporary buildings and temporary accommodation.
The updates clarify existing wording and add alternative testing and safety approaches.
LPCB LPS 1195 testing is now included as an alternative to individual element testing.
Requirements for stacked temporary buildings have been clarified.
A clause was removed and another revised to allow flexibility for self-closing devices.
The guidance applies to all project stages from design to construction.
The Code is intended to reduce fire risk on construction sites.
It is supported by the insurance, fire, and construction sectors.
The JCoP was first published in 1992 and is updated to reflect new standards.