Fire Safety Regulations & GuidancE
Key fire safety legislation, standards and guidance for building owners, contractors and designers.
Understanding the regulatory landscape is essential for anyone responsible for fire safety or passive fire protection. Below is a curated list of the primary documents, legislation and guidance that influence fire safety design, installation, and ongoing compliance in England. These links provide authoritative information to help you meet your obligations and maintain safe, compliant buildings.
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Fire safety: Approved Document B – GOV.UK
The official Building Regulations guidance for fire safety in England.
It covers requirements relating to:Means of escape
Fire spread (internal and external)
Fire detection and warning systems
Access and facilities for firefighting
The current version includes the 2019 edition with amendments in 2020, 2022 and 2025.
2025 Amendments to Approved Document B (PDF)
Key updates include:
Removal of national classes for reaction to fire and roof coverings
New sprinkler requirements for care homes
Updated Regulation 38 guidance on fire safety information
Strengthened requirements for handover documentation
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Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 – Legislation.gov.uk
Core legislation for fire safety in non-domestic premises. Includes amendments from:
Fire Safety Act 2021
Building Safety Act 2022
Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025
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Fire Safety Act 2021 – Legislation.gov.uk
Clarifies that external walls, cladding systems and flat entrance doors fall within the Fire Safety Order.
Building Safety Act 2022 – Legislation.gov.uk
Introduces the Building Safety Regulator and new duties for high-risk residential buildings.Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 – GOV.UK
Sets out additional safety requirements for high-rise and multi-occupied residential buildings.