UK fire safety standard BS 9991:2024 revised for residential building guidance
Iain Hoey
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Updated fire safety guidance for UK residential buildings
The British Standards Institution (BSI) has released the revised BS 9991:2024 Fire safety in the design, management and use of residential buildings – Code of practice.
Published on 27 November 2024, the updated standard replaces the previous 2015 edition.
BS 9991:2024 includes new recommendations and updates aimed at enhancing fire safety in residential properties across the UK.
Focus on Grenfell and stakeholder input
The revisions commenced prior to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry final report in September 2024.
While the report did not directly recommend changes to BS 9991, it highlighted the need for comprehensive fire safety measures.
The public consultation process generated over 1,800 comments, reviewed by the FSH/14 technical committee responsible for the standard.
Expanded scope and updated measures
Key updates in BS 9991:2024 include extending the scope to cover residential care homes, revised guidance on evacuation lifts, and new height limits for sprinkler installations and single-stair buildings.
These changes aim to provide consistent fire safety measures while addressing diverse UK regulations, including England’s Approved Document B, Scotland’s Technical Handbook 2, and Northern Ireland’s Technical Booklet E.
Expert input and industry focus
BSI Director-General, Standards, Scott Steedman, commented:
“The Grenfell tragedy has brought the issue of building safety into focus.
“It is critical that all standards reflect the latest evidence.”
He noted that the updated standard is designed to ensure effective escape routes and robust fire safety systems in residential buildings.
BS 9991:2024 revised for fire safety: summary
The BSI has published the updated BS 9991:2024 standard for residential building fire safety.
The revised guidance includes expanded scope and updated safety measures.
It reflects input from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and extensive consultation with stakeholders.
