Sprinklers in New Care Homes (Effective 2 March 2025)

From 2 March 2025, all newly built care homes in England must be equipped with sprinkler systems as a legal requirement. This update aims to provide enhanced protection for some of the most vulnerable members of society – residents in care homes.

• Why it matters: Sprinklers significantly reduce the risk of death and injury during a fire by controlling flames before they can spread.
• Wider impact: Families and care providers will have greater peace of mind knowing that new care homes meet higher safety standards.

💡 Did you know? Properties with sprinklers installed experience up to 80% less fire damage compared to those without.

European Fire Testing Standards (Phasing in from March 2025)

The UK is transitioning from the long-standing BS 476 fire testing standards to the modernised BS EN 13501 standards, aligning with updated European safety practices.

• What’s changing?
  BS EN 13501 offers a more detailed and consistent approach to assessing fire performance for construction materials.
  • It introduces updated testing methods for reaction to fire, fire resistance, and safety standards.
  • Manufacturers and developers will now need to meet more rigorous requirements for fire-resistant materials.
• Impact: This will lead to safer construction practices and improved protection in homes, offices, and public buildings across the UK.

💡 Think of it as replacing an outdated manual with a modern guide designed for today’s challenges.

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)

PEEPs will become mandatory for high-rise and high-risk buildings, ensuring tailored evacuation procedures are in place for vulnerable residents.

• Who benefits?
  • Residents with disabilities, mobility issues, or other vulnerabilities who might struggle to evacuate during an emergency.
  • Building owners and emergency services who can use these plans to ensure smoother and safer evacuations.
• How it works:
  1. Identify residents who need assistance.
  2. Develop customised evacuation plans tailored to their needs.
  3. Train staff and emergency personnel to implement these plans effectively.

This new requirement reinforces inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind in a crisis.

💡 Interesting fact: Personalised evacuation plans can cut response times in half during emergencies.

Phasing Out AFFF Fire Extinguishers (By 4 July 2025)

By 4 July 2025, AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) fire extinguishers will be banned in the UK due to their harmful environmental impact.

• The issue:
  AFFF extinguishers contain PFAS chemicals (known as “forever chemicals”) that are non-biodegradable and harmful to ecosystems, groundwater, and human health.
• The solution: Businesses and organisations are encouraged to replace AFFF extinguishers with environmentally friendly alternatives such as water mist extinguishers or clean-agent systems.
• Action required:
  • Audit your premises for AFFF extinguishers.
  • Work with certified suppliers to replace them before the July 2025 deadline.

💡 Switching to sustainable options means protecting both lives and the environment.

Remember Your Role as the Responsible Person

As the business owner, you have a legal obligation to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. Here’s what the law requires from you:

• Ensure your workplace has a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment. This is essential to identify potential fire hazards and put preventive measures in place.
• Arrange for a competent person to conduct the assessment. The assessment must be carried out by someone with the appropriate knowledge and expertise.
• Keep written records for businesses with five or more employees. These records should document the assessment findings and any actions taken.
• Remember, you remain the risk owner and responsible person. This means that fire safety falls under your duty of care, and it’s up to you to ensure all legal obligations are met.
• Be aware that failing to meet your legal duties could result in serious consequences. Non-compliance can lead to unlimited fines or even imprisonment.

➡️ Don’t delay! Take action now to make sure your business and employees are always safe. Safety should always be a priority – keep your fire risk assessment up to date and act responsibly.