BAFSA Welcomes Changes to Fire Safety: Approved Document B (ADB)
The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) welcomes the changes to Fire Safety: Approved Document B (ADB) which came into force on 26th November 2020. However, there remains the question — do the measures go far enough?
The changes regarding the mandatory installation of automatic fire sprinklers in England affect new builds, material alterations, material changes of use, and extensions. The main points include:
- The height threshold for the provision of sprinklers is reduced from 30m down to 11m.
- BS9251 or BS EN 12845 continue to be recommended for sprinkler system installations in flats.
- There will be no recommendation for sprinklers to be provided in common areas when these are fire sterile (lacking in combustible materials).
- The new provisions will apply to extensions so that sprinkler protection and wayfinding signage will be necessary in any newly formed accommodation in buildings with a floor 11m or more above ground level.
BAFSA questions whether the requirement should have been extended to all new-build flats, regardless of height. Evidence has consistently shown that automatic fire sprinklers protect residents from fire, limit fire spread, protect escape routes, and safeguard firefighters attending such incidents.
It is also proven that automatic fire sprinklers reduce property and contents damage by extinguishing or controlling a fire in its early stages. This evidence applies equally to flats below 11 metres as well as those above — perhaps an opportunity missed?
Nevertheless, this legislation represents a significant step forward, helping to protect the lives of future occupants and preserve much-needed accommodation for the UK’s growing population.
About BAFSA
The British Automatic Fire Sprinkler Association (BAFSA) is the UK’s leading professional trade association for the fire sprinkler industry and celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024. BAFSA members install more than 85% of all sprinkler and watermist systems in the UK, including the majority of third-party certified installers, as well as manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, insurers, and representatives from the fire and rescue services.
BAFSA’s core mission is to provide free, authoritative information on the benefits of sprinkler systems and how they play a vital role in saving lives and protecting property from the devastating effects of fire. The association works closely with government departments, fire services, building control officers, insurers, architects, and planners to ensure that systems are designed and installed to the highest professional standards.
When installed by competent, certified contractors, automatic fire sprinkler systems have a proven track record for reliability and effectiveness — and BAFSA is proud to represent the organisations dedicated to maintaining those standards.