Tag Archives: Fire Safety Regulations

How Long Should You Keep Fire Safety Records?

Fire safety inspector completing a checklist in a modern commercial corridor, with fire extinguishers and a hose reel visible in the softly blurred background.

Maintaining accurate fire safety records isn’t just a matter of good housekeeping, it’s a legal requirement. Whether you’re a landlord, business owner, school manager or facilities professional, you must be able to demonstrate compliance with fire safety legislation. But how long should you keep those records? What counts as essential documentation? And what might the […]

Phasing Out of AFFF Foam Fire Extinguishers: What You Need to Know

Chef using a wet-chemical fire extinguisher to tackle a small cooking-oil fire in a commercial kitchen.

By 4th July 2025, the use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) fire extinguishers will be completely banned in the UK. This significant regulatory change comes as part of the government’s efforts to address the growing environmental and health concerns linked to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—the chemicals found in AFFF. These substances, often called […]

Enhancing Safety: New Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) Policy

Close-up of a person seated in a wheelchair in a residential corridor, representing accessible fire evacuation planning and PEEPs.

On 2nd December 2024, the UK government released its response to the Emergency Evacuation Information Sharing Plus (EEIS+) consultation, introducing new requirements for Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs). These policies are designed to ensure that individuals who require assistance during emergencies, particularly in multi-occupancy residential buildings, have tailored evacuation plans in place. The changes […]

UK’s Transition to European Fire Testing Standards: What You Need to Know

Fire-damaged suburban house with flames and thick smoke rising from the roof as firefighters respond from the street.

In a significant move to enhance building safety and align with international best practices, the UK government has announced the withdrawal of the national fire testing standards (BS 476 series) in favour of the European standards (BS EN 13501 series). This transition will be implemented in stages, with the first major changes taking effect from […]

Sprinkler Systems Mandatory in New Care Homes from March 2025

Ceiling-mounted fire sprinkler in a modern care home corridor and communal area, illustrating residential fire suppression and safety measures.

In a landmark move to improve fire safety in care homes, the UK government has announced that all newly constructed care homes, regardless of height, must have sprinkler systems installed from 2nd March 2025. This change forms part of a broader review of fire safety regulations and aims to provide greater protection for vulnerable residents […]

Fire Safety in 2025: Key Policy Changes and What They Mean for You

Fire safety equipment, including extinguishers, a manual call point and fire action signage, positioned beside a fire door in a modern office corridor.

As we enter 2025, the UK is set to implement significant changes in fire safety legislation aimed at enhancing building safety and protecting vulnerable populations. These updates, outlined in amendments to Approved Document B (Fire Safety), will impact construction practices, residential safety measures, and the credentials of fire risk professionals. It’s crucial for businesses, property […]

The Hidden Costs of Ignoring Fire Safety Compliance: Why Businesses Can’t Afford to Overlook It

Fire safety equipment, including a fire extinguisher, smoke detector and manual call point, arranged beside building evacuation plans on an office table.

Fire safety compliance isn’t just a legal obligation; it’s a fundamental responsibility for protecting lives, property, and the future of your business. In the UK, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places a duty on businesses to ensure their premises meet fire safety standards. Yet, some organisations neglect these obligations, often underestimating the far-reaching […]

5 Common Fire Safety Violations in Businesses and How to Avoid Them

Cluttered office corridor with stacked boxes obstructing an open exit door, alongside a fire extinguisher and manual alarm call point.

Fire safety is a vital responsibility for every business in the UK, not only to protect lives but also to meet legal obligations under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Unfortunately, many businesses fail to comply with these regulations, often due to oversight or lack of understanding. These lapses can lead to serious consequences, […]

Seasonal Fire Risks: How to Prepare for Bonfire Night and Fireworks Displays

Colourful red, gold, white and blue fireworks bursting across a dark night sky.

Bonfire Night, or Guy Fawkes Night, is one of the most celebrated events in the UK, marked by impressive fireworks displays and crackling bonfires. While it’s a fun-filled night for many, it also comes with a higher risk of fires and accidents. Every year, emergency services see a significant increase in fire-related incidents around Bonfire […]

The Evolution of Fire Codes: A Look at Changes Over the Past Decade

Firefighter using a hose to extinguish a smouldering, fire-damaged garden shed surrounded by charred timber and smoke.

Over the past decade, UK fire safety codes have undergone significant changes, influenced by major incidents and advancements in building safety. The Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 was a pivotal moment, leading to the Building Safety Act 2022, which enforced stricter regulations on high-rise buildings. Changes include the banning of combustible cladding, improved fire door […]