Integrating Fire Safety

Fire safety in residential buildings has taken a significant step forward with the release of the updated BS 9991:2024 standard on 27 November 2024. This new iteration, which replaces the 2015 edition, broadens its scope to include residential care homes, enhances guidance on evacuation lifts, and revises height limits for sprinkler installation in multi-storey and single-stair buildings. The updated code offers a comprehensive framework to improve safety across the UK’s residential landscape, safeguarding occupants while addressing modern design and functionality challenges. 

In this blog, we examine the key updates and explore how Chubb is uniquely equipped to help stakeholders navigate the complexities of BS 9991:2024. 

Enhancing Residential Fire Safety 

The updates to BS 9991:2024 reflect evolving fire safety practices, providing clearer guidance on integrating advanced safety measures into residential settings. Here are the key changes: 

1. Residential Care Homes Included – Care homes are now specifically covered under BS 9991, acknowledging the unique fire safety needs of facilities that house vulnerable individuals. The new guidance emphasises assisted evacuation strategies and heightened safety standards, ensuring these spaces are equipped to handle emergencies effectively. 
2. Evacuation Life Guidance Expanded – Recognising the critical role of evacuation lifts, the updated standard includes detailed recommendations for their design and use. These lifts are essential for safely evacuating individuals with limited mobility, offering an effective alternative to traditional escape routes. 
3. Revised Sprinkler System Requirements – New height thresholds for sprinkler installations reflect the increasing reliance on these systems as a primary fire suppression method. These revisions enhance protection in high-rise residential buildings and ensure compliance with evolving safety expectations. 
4. Safety in Single-Stair Buildings  –The updated recommendations for single-stair buildings address potential risks associated with limited egress options. By focusing on improved evacuation planning, the standard aims to mitigate hazards in these structures. 

These changes highlight a commitment to advancing safety standards and improving outcomes for all building occupants. 

Implications for Stakeholders 

The revised standard has far-reaching implications for architects, building managers, and fire safety professionals. Key considerations include: 

• Incorporating Risk Assessments
  Tailored risk assessments are vital to address the specific needs of vulnerable occupants, particularly in residential care homes. This involves a detailed analysis of evacuation plans and fire safety measures. 

• Fostering Collaborative Design
  Architects, consultants, and fire safety experts must collaborate from the project’s outset to seamlessly integrate safety measures. Early involvement ensures compliance while preserving design intent and functionality. 

• Enhancing Compliance Responsibility
  Building managers face increased responsibility to align with the new standards. This may involve upgrading existing systems or implementing additional staff training to address updated requirements. 

• Supporting Innovation
  The clearer guidance allows for creative, flexible design solutions that meet both aesthetic and safety needs. For example, concealed or low-profile safety systems can blend seamlessly with modern interiors. 

Chubb: Your Partner in Fire Safety 

With decades of experience in fire safety solutions, Chubb is uniquely equipped to help stakeholders navigate the complexities of BS 9991:2024. Here’s how we can assist: 

Chubb’s experts conduct thorough evaluations of your current fire safety measures, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring compliance with the updated standard. 

In terms of evacuation, Chubb has the expertise to help building managers prepare the right evacuation plan for their building. Having a thorough plan assists occupants’ fast evacuation and can save lives. These measures may include clearly marked escape routes, emergency exit signs, lighting and even a public address system. 

Through our fire suppression specialist Vipond, Chubb can also provide advanced sprinkler systems designed to meet the revised height thresholds, offering optimal performance tailored to the unique needs of your building. 

Staff Training and Preparedness 

Understanding BS 9991:2024 is crucial for effective implementation. Chubb’s training programmes equip your team with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain high safety standards. 

Regular system maintenance is essential for compliance and reliability. Chubb’s customised service plans ensure your safety systems remain fully operational. 

Achieving Aesthetic and Functional Safety 

Modern fire safety is about more than compliance – it’s about integrating systems into the design process to create safe, functional, and visually appealing spaces. Chubb’s expertise lies in delivering solutions that meet stringent safety standards without compromising the aesthetic integrity of your buildings. 

For example, concealed sprinkler systems can seamlessly blend into ceilings, and wireless technologies eliminate the need for intrusive wiring. These innovations ensure safety systems remain effective and unobtrusive, preserving the design intent of your residential spaces. 

Moving Forward with Confidence 

The introduction of BS 9991:2024 is a pivotal moment for residential fire safety. It’s an opportunity for building managers, architects, and fire safety professionals to reassess existing measures and adopt cutting-edge solutions that align with the updated standard. 

With Chubb as your partner, you can confidently navigate these changes, ensuring your buildings provide the highest levels of safety and compliance while enhancing their design and functionality.  

Contact Chubb today to explore how we can help you implement BS 9991:2024 effectively. 

© 2024 Chubb Fire and Security. All rights reserved. 

The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Chubb Fire and Security is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided. This blog is not an advertisement or advice document.  You are responsible for complying with any legal or regulatory requirements that apply to you. 

Chubb Fire and Security reserves the right to modify the content and offers mentioned in this blog without prior notice.