New guidance sought for Building Safety Act compliance in the UK

Building Safety Act guidance needed for fire safety supply chain

The Building Safety Act 2022, introduced in October 2023, has introduced new safety requirements for higher-risk buildings in the UK.

These include buildings that are at least 18 metres tall or have at least seven storeys with two or more residential units.

AEI Cables has highlighted concerns that these requirements remain unclear to many decision-makers in the fire safety supply chain.

According to a study by NBS, 50% of respondents were unsure or unaware of their duty holder responsibilities under the new regulations.

Stuart Dover, general manager at AEI Cables, commented: “We are keen to share our own guidance on safety for electrical cables which provide power for many of the building safety systems in high-rise buildings, but any further clear guidance from the regulator in the application of the details would be welcomed by the supply chain.”

Role of electrical cables in high-risk buildings

Electrical cables are integral to the safety systems of higher-risk buildings, including smoke and heat extraction systems.

These systems are crucial for supporting firefighting efforts and ensuring safe evacuation during emergencies.

The Building Safety Regulator oversees the performance and safety of all buildings, with a particular focus on high-rise structures.

The regulator also promotes competence and capability within the sector, encompassing building control professionals and tradespeople.

Building owners must now have their safety regimes in place.

Occupied higher-risk buildings are required to be registered with the regulator.

Fire-resistant cabling standards

AEI Cables’ Firetec Enhanced cables have been certified by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) to meet BS8519 standards, including Category 3 Control and Category 2 Control.

These standards set out six cable categories—three for power cables and three for control cables—covering survival times of 30, 60, or 120 minutes.

The company ensures its products meet independent approval standards such as BASEC and LPCB and holds certifications from organisations including Lloyds, the Ministry of Defence, Network Rail, and London Underground.

Call for clearer regulatory guidance

AEI Cables has emphasised the need for more accessible information from the Building Safety Regulator to ensure compliance.

The company aims to continue providing guidance to the fire safety sector while supporting the safe installation of critical systems in high-rise buildings.

Building Safety Act guidance needed for fire safety supply chain: Summary

The Building Safety Act 2022 imposes new safety requirements for higher-risk buildings, but AEI Cables has noted a lack of understanding among supply chain decision-makers.

The Building Safety Regulator oversees building safety, with high-rise structures requiring specific safety measures.

AEI Cables provides fire-resistant cabling solutions certified to BS8519 standards, supporting life safety systems.

The company has called for clearer guidance to enhance compliance and ensure the safe operation of critical systems in these buildings.