BS 9991 is a British Standard code of practice for fire safety in the design, management, and use of buildings. It provides guidance on how to minimize the risk of fire and ensure the safety of occupants and firefighters. BS 9991 was first published in 2006 and revised in 2011 and 2015. In this article, we will focus on the key changes introduced in the 2015 version of BS 9991.
One of the significant changes in BS 9991:2015 is the introduction of the concept of “design for placing” to ensure that building designers consider the specific needs of firefighters during the design process. This includes providing adequate access and facilities for firefighters to operate effectively in the event of a fire. The standard also includes new guidance on the provision of firefighting shafts and lobbies to aid the rapid deployment of firefighters to the affected areas.
Another important change in BS 9991:2015 is the requirement for buildings with sleeping accommodation to have a sprinkler system installed. This is a significant step towards improving fire safety in buildings, especially those with vulnerable occupants such as hospitals, care homes, and high-rise residential buildings. The standard also provides detailed guidance on the design and installation of sprinkler systems to ensure they are effective in controlling and suppressing fires.
BS 9991:2015 also introduces new requirements for the design of means of escape in case of fire. The standard provides detailed guidance on the design and layout of escape routes, including the width and capacity of staircases, the provision of alternative escape routes, and the design of fire doors and corridors. These requirements aim to ensure that occupants can evacuate safely and quickly in the event of a fire, reducing the risk of injuries and fatalities.
The 2015 version of BS 9991 also introduces new requirements for the provision of fire detection and alarm systems in buildings. The standard specifies the types of fire detection and alarm systems that should be installed based on the type and use of the building. It also provides guidance on the maintenance and testing of these systems to ensure they are reliable and effective in detecting fires and alerting occupants.
BS 9991:2015 includes updated guidance on the design and construction of external walls and cladding systems to reduce the risk of fire spread in buildings. Following the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, there has been increased scrutiny on the fire safety of external cladding systems, especially in high-rise buildings. The standard now includes stricter requirements for the design and installation of external wall cladding systems to ensure they are fire-resistant and do not contribute to the spread of fire.
In addition to the above changes, BS 9991:2015 also includes updated guidance on the fire safety management of buildings, including the responsibilities of building owners, managers, and occupants in ensuring fire safety. The standard emphasizes the importance of fire risk assessments, fire safety training, and emergency planning to prevent fires and respond effectively in case of an emergency.
Overall, BS 9991:2015 represents a significant update to the British Standard code of practice for fire safety in buildings. The standard introduces new requirements and guidance to improve the fire safety of buildings and ensure the protection of occupants and firefighters. Building designers, managers, and owners should familiarize themselves with the key changes in BS 9991:2015 and ensure that their buildings comply with the updated requirements to enhance fire safety.bs9991 2015
In conclusion, BS 9991:2015 is an important standard that plays a crucial role in improving fire safety in buildings. The key changes introduced in the 2015 version of the standard aim to enhance the design, management, and use of buildings to minimize the risk of fires and ensure the safety of occupants and firefighters. By following the updated guidance in BS 9991:2015, building stakeholders can contribute to creating safer and more resilient built environments.