Consultation launched on proposed changes to Approved Document B

The open consultation process is live now, running for 12 weeks and closing for responses at 11.59 pm on 17 June.

Proposals to amend Approved Document B include the following: 

*implement important clarifications and technical changes to the guidance

*consolidate guidance for designing building work on existing buildings

*introduce a threshold on the use of combustible elements of structure, over which Approved Document B guidance should not be applied

*revise and update guidance on external wall systems and balconies and review the scope of the ban on combustible materials in – and on – external walls and specified attachments

*recommend providing evacuation lifts in residential buildings that rise above 18 metres in height and clarify the guidance for non-residential buildings

*update terminology on ‘sheltered housing’, introducing the new term ‘specialised housing’ in its place and including provisions for extended alarm coverage in these premises

*introduce updated guidance on roofs, including new provisions for incorporating solar photovoltaic panels

*increase the structural fire resistance rating of open-sided car parks

Share your views

*Interested parties wishing to offer their views should access the dedicated consultation page located on the Health and Safety Executive’s website

**For any enquiries concerning the consultation send an e-mail to [email protected]