News and Updates
Mandatory Sprinklers in New Care Homes (Effective March 2025)
From 2 March 2025, amendments to fire safety regulations (via updates to Approved Document B of the Building Regulations) now require all newly constructed care homes in England to have professional fire sprinkler systems installed, regardless of building height. This change reflects a growing focus on protecting vulnerable residents and improving early fire suppression capability across care facilities.
Transition to European Fire Testing Standards (BS EN 13501)
Also effective from March 2025, the UK began transitioning away from the traditional BS 476 fire classifications toward European fire testing and classification standards (BS EN 13501). This affects how construction materials and products are tested for fire performance and influences compliance in both new builds and refurbishment projects.
Residential Evacuation Planning Regulations (2025)
The Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025 were made law in July 2025 and set a framework for improved evacuation support for residents who may struggle to leave a building during a fire due to mobility or cognitive impairments. These regulations are designed to enhance evacuation planning and personal emergency support, with full implementation scheduled for April 2026.
Disabled Student Fire Evacuation Case Reaches Westminster
A disabled student was left alone in a school during a fire evacuation after staff were unable to safely assist him down the stairs due to a lack of evacuation equipment. The incident highlighted gaps in evacuation planning for pupils who cannot self-evacuate. Following national media attention, the case has been taken to Westminster, prompting calls for mandatory evacuation aids, such as evacuation chairs, and improved staff training in all education premises.
Preston Landlord Prosecuted for Failing to Have a Fire Risk Assessment
Preston, Lancashire – 21 November 2024
A landlord, was prosecuted by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service at Preston Crown Court after failing to carry out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment and other basic fire safety duties under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The offences included lack of adequate alarm systems and safe evacuation provisions. Mr Chen received a suspended sentence and community service, highlighting the legal duty on Responsible Persons to have proper risk assessments in place.
West Sussex Business Director Prosecuted for Fire Safety Failures
Brighton Magistrates’ Court – 8 September 2025
The Responsible Person and company director of a company in Burgess Hill, was prosecuted by West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service for multiple breaches of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, including the absence of a suitable fire risk assessment and other serious fire safety failures. He was ordered to pay £6,200 in fines after officers identified risks including inadequate escape routes, alarm systems, and fire safety arrangements.
City of London Police Officers Give Life-Saving CPR
11 December 2024 – London
Two City of London Police officers were praised after administering life-saving CPR to a man who collapsed in a pub, demonstrating the value of CPR training for emergency responders.