The Government has published a document listing amendments to Volumes 1 and 2 of Approved Document B which will come into effect in September 2026.
These amendments principally concern:
- Threshold for the provision of a second staircase in blocks of flats with a storey 18m or more in height.
- Evacuation shafts are introduced to support the provision of evacuation lifts.
- Changes to provisions for fire doorsets.
- New terminology including definitions for evacuation shaft, evacuation lift lobby, interlocked stair and storey exit.
- Provisions for horizontal escape and vertical escape separated as per the structure of Volume 2.
The 2019 edition incorporating the 2020 and 2022 amendments will continue to apply where a building notice or an initial notice has been given to, or a building control approval application with full plans made to, the relevant authority before 30 September 2026 and either the building work to which it relates:
- has started and is sufficiently progressed before that day; or
- is started and is sufficiently progressed within the period of 18 months beginning on that day
You can view the amendments at the link below:
Fire safety: Approved Document B
FIS will publish further detailed guidance on these changes in the coming months.
See more news likes this
FIS supports Open Doors to unlock opportunities in the finishes and interiors sector
Open Doors is an initiative organised by Build UK to inspire the next generation to choose a career in construction. This sector is hugely rewarding, and Open Doors provides organisations with an opportunity to showcase their sites, manufacturing facilities, offices...
The Skills Centre launches innovative interior systems (drylining) apprenticeships in London and Essex
Construction training provider, The Skills Centre has launched a cutting-edge apprenticeship scheme specialising in drylining. Designed in collaboration with employers and endorsed by FIS, this specialist training programme will launch in March at The Skills Centre’s...
Sub-Contracting Simplified: New working group to develop a 500-word style contract.
FIS is working with legal expert Sarah Fox (famous for her 500-word approach to contracts) to create a simplified subcontract for FIS members to use. Sarah describes herself as a recovering lawyer and her work is driven by the principle that we are wasting time, money...