Published: April 3, 2025
By DML
March 2025 has been a pivotal month for fire safety in the UK, with significant developments in regulations, legal disputes, and industry guidance concerning fire sprinkler systems. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the month’s key events.
🔥 Mandatory Sprinkler Systems in New Care Homes Effective March 2025
As of March 2, 2025, all newly constructed care homes in England are legally required to have sprinkler systems installed, regardless of the building’s height or sizeThis amendment to Approved Document B aims to enhance fire safety for vulnerable residents
Government Statement: This regulatory change ensures that our most vulnerable citizens are better protected against fire risks in care settings”
📑 Source: GOV.UK – Approved Document B Updates
🏢 East Village Faces £432 Million Fire Safety Remediation Bil
The former Olympic Village in London, now known as East Village, is confronting a staggering £432 million bill to address significant fire safety defects identified within its buildings The East Village Management Limited (EVML) increased its provision for repairs from £95 million to £432 million following new inspections.
*EVML Statement: “Despite the defects, all homes remain safe due to mitigation measures like alarms and fire watches.”
A legal dispute is ongoing between stakeholders Get Living and Triathlon Homes over liability for the remediation cost.
📑 Source: Financial Times – East Village Fire Safety Defects
📘 New Sprinkler Guidance Released for Responsible Persons
In March, the Fire Protection Association (FPA) released a comprehensive guide aimed at assisting responsible persons in understanding their duties regarding sprinkler systems. The guide covers topics such as:
Utilizing third-party certified systems and installers
Proper maintenance of fire suppression systems
Differences between residential/domestic and industrial/commercial systems
Actions to take if a fire suppression system becomes non-operational
Minimizing water damage
FPA Statement “This guide aims to provide clarity and support to those responsible for fire safety, ensuring systems are correctly specified, installed, and maintained.”
📑 Source: Fire Protection Association – New Sprinkler Guide
🏗️ Business Sprinkler Alliance Calls for Expanded Regulations
While the mandate for sprinklers in new care homes is a positive step, the Business Sprinkler Alliance (BSA) has urged the government to extend these requirements to
**Existing care homes*
**Assisted living accommodations*
Other buildings housing vulnerable individuals
BSA Secretary Tom Roce: “While we welcome the inclusion of sprinklers in new care homes, we must recognize that this regulatory change leaves a significant gap in protection for other vulnerable individuals.”
📑 Source: Facilitate Magazine – BSA Statement
🔮 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Fire Safety changes
Beyond the current mandates, the UK is set to phase out BS 476 fire tests in favor of BS EN 13501 standards, starting in Marc 025. This transition aims to modernize fire safety testing and classification, aligning with European standards.
Industry Insight: “Adopting BS EN 13501 standards will enhance the consistency and reliability of fire safety assessments across the UK.”
📑 Source: GOV.UK – Fire Safety: Approved Document B
🚨 FinalThoughts
March 2025 has marked significant advancements in fire safety regulations and highlighted ongoing challenges in the UK’s approach to fire sprinkler systems. While new mandates aim to protect vulnerable populations, industry voices continue to advocate for broader measures to ensure comprehensive safety across all building types.
Stay tuned for next month’s update, and subscribe to our newsletter for continuous coverage of fire protection news.
