London District Surveyors Association

Fire Safety Guide

No I

LONDON DISTRICT SURVEYORS ASSOCIATION PUBLICATIONS

1997

The LDSA is a region of the District Surveyors Associationof England and Wales
E1
DISTRICISURVEYORS
ASSOCIATION
Foreword
Section 20 of the London Building Acts (amendment) Act 1939 (as amended
primarily by the Building (Inner London) Regulations 1985) is principally concerned
with thedanger arising from fire within certain classes of buildings which by reason
of height, cubical extentand/or use necessitate special consideration. The types of
buildings coming within these categories are defined under Section 20 of the
amended1939 Act which (togetherwith other appropriate sections of this and other
Acts) is reproduced in 1.02 ofthis guide for the assistance of applicants.

The effect of the amendments to Section 20 was to harmonise it with the

requirementsof the Building Regulations1985.
As buildings vary so much in height, cubic capacity, layout, siting, use and
construction the relevantCouncilwill dealwith each case on its merits. Basicallythe
principles incorporated in this Guide seek to provide not only such fire-fighting
facilitiesas would enable the fire brigade to tackle the seat of a fire with the utmost
speed, but also to provide early warning of fire, contain an outbreak of fire and to
prevent its rapid spread throughout a building priorto the arrival of the fire brigade.
Additionally the principles seek, in certain buildings (or parts of buildings) to ensure
the safety of the structure against fire.

This Guidehas been prepared in orderto assistapplicants in detailing proposalsfor

consideration by the relevantlocal authorityunderSection20 and it contains general
information as to the conditions which may be imposed by a Council when approving
any such proposals. Applicants are therefore advised to consult the relevant
Council's officers at the earliest stages of design so that a clear indication of the
conditions most likely to be imposed may be taken into account before detailed
drawings are preparedfor submissionto the relevant Councilfor approval.

It should also be pointed out that the copyright oftheformer Greater London Council
Code of Practice for Section 20 buildings, on which this document is based, rests
with the London Residuary Body.

Keith Mullins
President
London District SurveyorsAssociation

London District Surveyors Association Section 20 and Means of Escape

Working Party
Mr T.M. Ashton (City of London)
Senior Divisional Officer P.W. Carey (London Fire and Civil Defence Authority)
Mrs B. Menzies(Tower Hamlets)
Mr A. Porter (Wamngton Fire ResearchConsultants)
Mr D.J. Wall (Westminster)

I
 Contents
PART I - GENERAL
1.01 Submissionsof Applications 7
1.02 Controlling Acts 8
1.03 Part I Definitions 12

PART 2- RECOMMENDATIONSFOR ALL BUILDINGS

2.01 Firealarms 14
2.02 FIre extinguishingappliancesand installations 14
2.03 Externalprivate fire hydrants 14
2.04 Dry rising mains 15
2.05 Wet rising mains 15
2.06 Dry falling mains 15
2.07 Automaticsprinkler installations 15
2.08 AutomatIc fire extinguishing installations
(other than sprinklers) 16
2.09 Hose reels and handfire appliances 17
2.10 Smoke control systems 17
2.11 Smoke control systems - Retail premises 19
2.12 Smoke control systems in car parks and loading bays 19
2.13 Smoke control systems in factories or
warehouse buildings 20
2.14 Fire brigade access to the exterior ofthe building 20
2.15 Fire brigade accessto the interiorof the building 21
2.16 Fire control centres 22
2.17 Display of plans etc 23

PART 3- SPECIAL FIRE RISKAREAS

3.01 Heat producing appliances producing in excess
of 220 kilowatts of heat 24
I Oil fuel boiler chambers 24
2 Oil fuel storage 24
3 Other boiler chambers 25
4 Ventilation to boiler chambers and oil fuel storage chambers 26
3.02 Fixed internal combustionengines 26
3.03 Transformersubstations 27
3.04 Nitratefilm and celluloid storage 28
3.05 Celluloseand other flammable liquid spraying rooms 28
3.06 Loadingbays 30
I Loading bays in a basement and/or carpark 30
2 Loading bays at or about ground level or above and
notadequatelyventilated 31
3 Loading bays used additionallyfor thegaraging of vehicles 31
4 Loading bays used additionallyfor the garaging of vehicles
and not exceeding 500m2 in area 31
5 Generally 31

3
3.07 Car parks 32
I General requirements for all car parks 32
2 Stairways 32
3 Special fire risk areas 32
4 Heating, lighting, electrical and ventilation arrangements 32
5 Repair service 33
6 Loading bays 33
7 Electrical and mechanical equipment 33
8 Heating equipment 33
3.08 Undergroundcar parks 34
I Separation 34
2 Elements of structure 34
3 Communicationwith remainder of building at same level 34
4 Communication by stairway or passenger lift with the ground
and/or the upper storeys 35
5 Communication by stairway to the ground storey only 35
6 Prevention of vapour accumulation 36
7 Smoke control 36
8 Basement plans 36
9 Deep basements 36
3.09 Enclosedcar parks above ground which are not
adequatelyventilated 37
I Separation 37
2 Elements of structure 37
3 Compartmentation 37
4 Communicationwith remainder of building 37
5 Communicationby stairway or passenger lift 37
6 Smoke control 38

PART 4- BUILDING THE MAJOR USE OF WHICH CONSTITUTES A

SPECIAL FIRE RISK
4.01 Constructiongenerally 39
4.02 Fire resistanceof elements of structure 39
4.03 Heating lighting, electrical and ventilating arrangements 39

PART 5- COMPARISONBETWEEN THE REQUIREMENTSOF SECTION

20 AND PART B TO THE BUILDING REGULATIONS 1991
FOLLOWINGTHE INTRODUCTIONOF PART B5
5.01 Introduction 40
5.02 Continuing Control 40
5.03 Review 40

AppendixA 41

4
London District Surveyors
Association
Fire Safety Guide No I

Fire Safety in Section 20

Buildings
London Building Acts
(Amendment) Act 1939 -
Section 20
Guide for buildingsof Excess Height and/or Additional Cubical Extent requiring
approval underSection 20 of the London Building Acts (Amendment) Act 1939.

Note
ThisGuideis applicable only to buildings erected, altered and/or extended within the
inner Londonarea, i.e., the area administeredby the formerLondon County CounciL

This mustnotbe taken as a statutorydocument. It is intendedto be a generalguide,

and the Association takes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information
providedwhich is given on the basis of the Association's current understandingof
legislation and regulations.
LondonDistrict Surveyor's Association.

5
 Part I
General
101 Submission of Applications
One of the effects of the amendments to Section 20 is that applicants should be
able to obtain consent to their proposalswithin the same timeframe as that of their
application under the Building Regulations.

a To meet thisobjective, the following proceduresshould be followed:

b A letter of application should be submittedto the appropriateCouncil and the

following information should be given:

2 Particularsneeded

a Particulars of the occupation with detailsofthe trades, processes or use of the

various parts of the building and of any other buildings within the curtilage of the
site. If the building, or part thereof, is for speculative letting, this should be stated,
together with all possible information as to the future use.

b The systems of heating and ventilation proposed,including the type of fuel for
heating purposes.

c Details ofthe voltage, capacityand type oftransformingplant and switch gear.

3 Drawingsneeded
a Applications should be accompanied by complete plans, sections and
elevations (in duplicate) drawn to a scale of 1:100 (or in the case of very large
buildings the drawingsmaybe to a scale of 1:200, provided they clearly indicate the
proposals). The Council may require larger scale detail plans of certain parts to be
submitted for approval.

b The drawings should show by figured dimensions:

i theheightsof the variousparts of thebuilding and thelevel of the footway
(if any) immediatelyin front of the centre of each face. Where there is no
footway, the level of the ground before excavation should be indicated;
ii the superficialarea of each floor in the building;
iii in a building ofthewarehouseclass or building or part of a building used
for the purposes oftrade or manufacture:the cubical extent of the building as
a whole; and the cubical extent of each floor and portion of the building so
used.

4 A site plan (in duplicate) drawnto a suitable scale should be submitted showing the
surroundingbuildings and streets and all means of access to the site.

5 In caseswhere applications are also necessaryunder other legislationthe Council's

officers should be consulted.

7
1.02 Controlling Acts
The following extracts from the London Building Acts (Amendment) Act 1939 as
amended by The Building (Inner London) Regulations 1985 together with extracts
from and referencesto the LondonBuilding Act 1930, are given for guidance.

2 Section 20. Precautionsagainstfire in certain buildings and

cubical extent of buildings

This section applies where -

a a building is to be erected with a storey or part of a storey at a greater height

-
than 30 metres; or (ii) 25 metres if the area of the building exceeds 930 square
metres;

b a building of the warehouse class, or a building or part of a building used for

the purpose of trade or manufacture, exceeds 7,100 cubicmetres in extent unless
it is divided by division walls in such a manner that no division of the building is of
a cubical extent exceeding 7,1000 cubic metres.
3 A wall is a division wall for the purposesof subseciton (2) of thissection if -

a it extends from its foundationsto form a complete separation in one vertical

plane between the divisions of the building or the parts ofthe building; and

b it has a fire resistance of not less than four hours; and

c any openings in the wall complywith the requirements of subsections (4A) and
(48) of section 21 ofthe Act; and
d where the difference in height of any roofs which adjoin the wall is less than
375 millimetres either - (i) thewall extends to a height above the roofof the highest
building or partofthe building which adjoinsthe wall of not less than 375 millimetres
measured at right anglesto the upper surface of that roof; or (ii) any part of the roof
within 1.5 metres of the wall is constructed so that - (1) it is designatedfor purposes
of resisting fire penetration and spread not less than the standard AA in British
Standard 476: Part 3: 1958 published by the British Standards Institution; (2) its
deck is of solid or hollow slab construction of non combustible materials not less
than 100 millimetres in thickness; and (3) the junction between it and the wall is fire-
stopped by means of a seal of non combustible materials provided to close any
imperfection of fit so as to restrict penetrationof smoke and flame.
4 Subject to sub-section (5) of this section, the Council after consulting the fire
authority may impose conditions for the provision and maintenanceof -

(a) fire alarms; (b) automaticfire detection systems; (C) fire extinguishingappliances
and installations; (d) effective means of removing smoke in case of fire; (e)
adequate means of access to the interior, exterior and site of the building for fire
brigade personnel and appliances.

5 Paragraphs (a) to (c) of subsection(4) of this section shall not apply to any building
to which this section applies in respect of which a fire certificate issued by the
Health and Safety Executive is for the time being required under the Health and
Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

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6 The Council after consulting the fire authoritymay impose additional conditions in
respect of any special fire risk area for- (a) restricting the use of any such area in
the building; (b) the provision and maintenance of proper arrangements for
lessening so far as is reasonablypracticable danger from fire in the building.

7 For the purposes of subsection (6) of this section a 'special fire risk area' includes
an area - (a) whereany of the following apparatusis installed - (i) a heat producing
appliance designed to produce in excess of 220 kilowatts of heat; or (ii) a fixed
internal combustion engine (including a gas turbine engine) designed to produce in
excess of44 kilowatts of power; or (iii) electrical oil-cooledtransformers or oil-filled
switchgear each with an oil capacity in excess of 1,000 volts; (b) where any
flammable or combustible solid, liquid or gaseous substances are manufactured,
treated, handled or stored in quantities likely to constitute a fire hazard including -
(i) fuel oil, diesel oil or petroleum spirit; (ii) nitrate film or celluloid; (C) where a
cellulose or other flammableliquid spraying room is located; or (d) where any storey
of a garage, vehicle park, loadingbay or loading dock is located - (i) in a basement;
or (ii) at ground level or above and is not adequatelyventilated. For the purposes
of this paragraph, a 'basement' means a storey of which the floor is at any point
more than 1.2 metres below the finished surface of the ground adjacent to it.

8 For the purposes of subsection (7d) of this section, a storey is 'adequately

ventilated' if and only if - (a) it contains openings or ducts in its external enclosures
which afford permanent ventilation from the external air; and (b) the openings or
ducts are arrangedon opposing faces so as to provide adequate cross ventilation
to all parts; and (c) theunobstructed area of the openings or ducts is in total not less
than five per cent of the floor areaofthat storey of the garage, vehicle park, loading
bay or loading dock.

9 The owner or occupier of a buildingto which this section applies shall, before or at
the same time as any notice is given or plans are deposited in respect of the
building, deposit at the principal office of the Council two copies of plans of the
building in accordancewith regulationsmade by the Council.

10 The Council shall impose any conditions which it may impose under this section
within five weeks from the date on which plans are deposited in respect of the
building in accordance with this section or within such extended period as may
beforethe expiration ofthefiveweeks be agreed in writing between the person who
depositedthe plans and the Council.

11 The provisions ofthis sectionshall not applyto anybuilding which being at a greater
distance than two miles from Saint Paul's Cathedral is used solely for the
manufactureof themachineryand boilers of steamvessels or for a retort house and
which consists of one floor only and is constructedthroughout of brick, stone, iron
or otherincombustiblematerials.
12 Section 21. Uniting of buildings

(1) Buildings shall be deemedto be united when any opening is made in the party
wall or the external walls separating the buildings or when the buildings are so
connectedthat there is access from one buildingto the otherwithout passing into
the external air and a building shall be deemed to be united with an underground
railway station when the building and the underground railway station are so
connectedthat there is access from the building to the undergroundrailway station
without passing into the external air.

9
13 Buildings shall not without the consent of the Council be united unless they are
wholly in one occupation and when so united and considered as one buildingwould
be in conformitywith the London Building Acts.
14 A building (not being part of a railway station) shall not without the consent of the
Council be united with an underground railway station unless the building to be
united is solelyin the occupation of the railway company to whom the underground
railway station belongs and the means of access between the building and the
station is afforded by a doorway in the building opening into a passage or subway
used solely as an approach to or exit from the underground railway station and a
lobby inside the building leading fromthe doorway and unless -

a the floorjambs and head of the doorway and the floor ceiling and enclosures
of the lobby are constructed of incombustible materials not less than three inches
in thickness;

b the full extent of the opening of the doorway and the entrance to the lobby
inside the building are each fitted with self-closingdoors possessing such a degree
of resistanceto the action of fire as the Council may determine;
c the doors open inwardstowardsthebuilding and with the doorways and lobby
are so constructed fitted and maintained so as to form when closed a watertight
separation between the buildingand the said passage or subway.

15 Subjectto the following provisions of this section where an opening is to be made

in -

a any division wall; or

b any party wall; or
c two external walls,

separating divisions of a building of the warehouse class or a building used for the
purposes of trade or manufacture or separating such buildings and such divisions
or buildings (as thecase may be) iftaken together would extend to morethan 7100
cubic metres, the Council may impose conditions under section 20 of thisAct.

16 Subsection of (15) of this section shall notapply if:

a the width of any opening in any wall of a storey (or if there is more than one
opening in any such wall, the width of all such openings taken together) does not
exceed one-half of the length of the wall, and

b each opening is closedby two steel plate doors, metal covered doors or steel
rolling shutters, one on each side of the wall, and

c those doors or shutters are -

I
i constructed in accordancewith specifications or 2 or 3 or 4, and
ii installed in accordancewith the general installationrequirements of the
Rulesfor theConstruction and Installation of Firebreak Doors and Shutters of
the Fire Offices' Committee dated February 1985.

17 Whenever it is proposed in respect of any buildings which were united when they
were in one occupation that they shall be in more than one occupation the owner
thereof or if the buildings are the property of different owners then each of the

10
 owners shall thereupon give notice of the intended change of occupation to the
district surveyorand unlessthe Council consent to the retention of the openings by
which thebuildings are united shall before the buildings are occupied by more than
one occupiercause all such openings to be stopped up with brick or stone work not
less in thickness than thirteen inches or (when thewall is of a less thickness than
thirteen inches) than the thickness of the wall and properly bonded or otherwise
unitedwith the wall and shall cause to be removed any timber placed in the wall in
connection with such openings and not in conformitywith the London Building Acts
or the Building Regulations.

18 Notwithstanding the existence in any party wall or two external walls or in any
division wall of an opening uniting buildings or affording communication between
divisions of a building (as the case may be) the provisions of this section shall
extend and apply to -

a all openings at any time after the thirty-first day of July nineteen hundred and
eight made or proposedto be made in any such wall or walls; and

b to such buildings as if theyhad not been previouslyunited.

19 Section 144. Powerto annexconditions to consentsetc

a The attentionof applicants is invited to the provisions of this Section which

states (inter alia):
i In any case where the Council have power in virtue of the London
Building Acts to granttheir consent to the doing or omission of any act or thing
the Council may give their consent subject to such terms and conditions in
relation to the subject matter of such consent as the Council think fit and any
such terms and conditions and any conditions imposed under section 20 of
this Act may include conditions applying to any building or structure or land
other than that in respect of which the consent is given or the conditions
imposed.
ii Any term or condition subject to which any consent to the doing or
omission of anyact or thing is given in virtue of the London BuildingActs shall
when accepted and any conditionsimposed under section 20 of this Act shall
in any eventbe binding on theowner and occupier ofthe building or structure
or land to which the term or conditionapplies and if at any time any such term
or condition is not observed or fulfilled the owner or occupier in default shall
be liable to a fine as provided by those Acts.

20 Publicationsreferred to in this document

BS 476 Fire tests on building materials and structures

Part 8 Test methods and criteria for the fire resistance of elements of building
construction

Part 20 Methodfor determinationof the fire resistance of elements of construction

(general principles)
Part 21 Methodsfor determinationof the fire resistance of loadbearingelements of
construction

Part 22 Methodsfor determination offire resistance of non-loadbeanngelements of

construction

Part 23 Method for determination of the contribution of components to the fire

resistance of a structure

11
 Part 24 Methodfor determination of the fire resistance of ventilation ducts

BS 799 Oil burning equipment Part 5 Oil storage tanks

BS 5041 Specification. Fire hydrant systems equipment Part I Landing valves for
wet risers

BS 5274 Specification for fire hose reels (water) for fixed installations

BS 5306 Fire extinguishing installationsand equipment on premises

I
Part Code of practice for hydrant systems, hose reels and foam inlets
Part 2 Code of practice for sprinkler systems

BS 5345 Code of practice or selection installation and maintenance of electrical

apparatus for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (other than mining
applications or explosive processing and manufacture)

BS 5410 Code of practice for oil firing

Part 2 Installations of44kW and above output capacity for space heating, hotwater
and steam supply purposes

BS 5588 Fire precautions in the design and construction of buildings

Part 5 Code of practice for fire fighting stairways and lifts

BS 5839 Fire detection and alarm systems in buildings

I
Part Code of practice for installationand servicing

BS 6207 Specification for mineral-insulatedcables

I
Part Copper-sheathedcables with copper conductors
BS 6387 Specification for performance requirementsfor cables required to maintain
circuitintegrity under fire conditions

BS 6644 Specificationfor installation of gas fired hotwater boilers of rated inputs

between 60kW and 2MW (2nd and 3rd family gases)

London District Surveyors Association Fire Safety Guides

No.2 Fire safety in atrium buildings
No.3 Phased evacuation from office buildings

1.03 Part I Definitions

The definitions contained in B21314 apply, except as outlined below.

2 'B21314' means B21314of Schedule I of The Building Regulations 1985.

3 'Budget lock' means a lock operated by a carriage type key inserted into a square
socket and complying with thefollowing:

a I
thebudget lock should be at a height of approximately .5m above floor level
and so positioned that there is no obstruction to preventthe keybeing inserted into
the socket and turned to release the locking mechanism;

b the budgetlock should be surrounded by a prominently raised escutcheon

plate which can be readily located by touch in smoke logging conditions and the
plateshould have preferably a tapered centre hole leading to the socket of the lock
to aid the location of the key OR the budget lock should be incorporated in the
centre of a raised knob or turn handle of standarddesign providedwith a tapered
locating hole leading to the socket of the lock for the key; and

12
 c the socket of each budget lock should be a 8mm square arid not less than
25mm in depth.

d the budget lock should be of hardened steel.

4 'Council' means the appropriate LondonBorough Council or the Court of Common

Council of the City of London.

5 'Fire brigade access level' means a level at which there is suitable entry to the
building and to a fire fighting shaft from an area to which fire brigade appliances
have access.

6 'Self-closing' means that the door should be fitted with an automatic self-closing
devicewhich is capable of closing the doorfrom any angle and against any latch
fitted to the door.

7 'Small car park' means a carpark notexceeding 500 m2 in area.

8 'Standard of fire resistance'. Where an element of structure door or form of

construction is specified as having a 30 minute, 60 minute, 120 minute or 1, 2 or 4
hour period of fire resistance they are determined by reference to the methods
specified in BS 476: Parts 8, 20, 22 or 23.

9 'Steel rolling shutter' meansa shutterconstructed in accordancewith specification

3 and installed in accordance with the general installation requirements of the
Constructionand Installation of Firebreak Doors and Shutters of the Fire Offices'
Committee dated February 1985 but including the provision to each shutter of an
automatic closing arrangement actuated by a fusible link set to operate at a
temperature notexceeding 740 Celsius.

10 The measurementof the height of any such storey or part of a storey as is

mentioned in this section shall be taken at the centre of the face of the building
where the measurement is greatest from the level of the footway immediately in
front of that face or where there is no such footway from the level of the ground
before excavation to the level of the highest part of the interior of the storey.

11 Area in relation to a building means the superfices of a horizontal section thereof

made at the point of its greatest surface inclusive of the externalwalls and of such
portionsof the party walls as belong to the building. (See LondonBuilding Act 1930,
Section 5).

12 Building of the warehouse class means a warehouse manufactory brewery or

distillery or any other building exceeding in cubical extent one hundred and fifty
thousandcubicfeet (4247.530 m3) which is neither a public building nor a domestic
building. (See London BuildingAct 1930, Section 5.)

13 Cubical extent in relation to the measurement of a building means the space

contained withinthe externalsurfaces of its walls and roof and the upper surface of
the floor of its lowest storey but excluding any space within any enclosure on the
roof of the building used exclusivelyfor accommodating a watertankor lift gear or
any like apparatus:

Provided that where a building on one or moreof its sides is not enclosed by a wall
or walls the building where unenclosed shall be deemed to be endosedby walls
with theexternal surface thereof in a vertical plane extendingdownwards from the
outer edge of the roof. (See London Building Acts (amendment) Act 1939;
section 4).

13
 Part 2
Recommendations For All Buildings
2.01 Fire alarms
A fire alarm system complying with the current edition of BS 5839 should be
provided throughout every building except buildings comprising flats and/or
maisonettes.

Notes

I in someinstances, it maybe necessary forsuch firealarm installationto be

automatic(viz actuatedby smoke and/orheat detectorsin addition to the normal call
points) where theuse of thebuilding (or part) warrants it (e.g., in hotels).

II in office buildings wherethemeans ofescape is based on phased evacuation

a number of additional features (such as a public address system) will be
necessary. (See LDSA Fire Safety Guide No. 3 Phased evacuation from office
buildings.)

2.02 Fire extinguishing appliances and installations

Details and particulars to be submitted.

a Beforework is commenced plans and particulars should be submitted to the

Council for approvalshowingdetailsof all fire extinguishing installations and, where
applicable, of theproposed water supplies.
b Fire extinguishing appliances and installations.

Fire extinguishing appliances and installations should be provided within the

building, and in any building within the same curtilage and ownership where the
latter present a risk to the building (e.g., by their proximity to it). The tyupe of
appliances and installation which the Council may require should be provided as
follows:-

2.03 External private fire hydrants

External privatehydrantsshould be providedwhere a rising main serving a building
is more than 40m from a statutory street hydrant

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2.04 Dry rising mains

Dry rising mains should be provided in accordance with BS 5306: Part 1 in the
following positions:-

a In the lobbies of the fire-fighting shafts.

b In the case of blocks of flats or maisonettes within the corridor or lobby

adjacent to the fire-fighting shafts.

c In such otherpositions as may be necessaryfor fire-fighting purposes.

Note
Dry risingmains shouldbe installed progressivelystorey by storey afterthe building
reaches a height where any storey is greater than IBm above the adjacent street
level.

2.05 Wet rising mains

Where any storey exceeds 60m in height wet rising mains in accordancewith BS
I I
5041: Part and BS 5306: Part should be provided. Such wet rising mains should
be independent of anyotherwatersupplies and should be in place of thedry rising
mains referred to in 2.04.

Note
Wet rising mains should be installed progressively as diy rising mains until the
building reaches a height of 60m and thereafter as wetrising mains unless other
an'angemenfs to give fire-fightingfacilities during the progress of works are agreed
with the Council.

2.06 Dry falling mains

Dry falling mains should be installed in accordancethe principles of BS 5306 Part

I (Dryrising mains) Separate dry falling mains should generally be provided in the
lobbies of the fire-fightingshafts or in other approvedpositions in a building having
a depth of 9m below fire brigade access level. They should be installed
progressively storey by storey. The inlets should be in a position at fire brigade
access level satisfactoryto the Council.

2.07 Automatic sprinkler installations

An automatic sprinkler installation in accordancewith BS 5306: Part 2 should be
provided should throughout all buildings.
Considerationwill be given to -

a Installations in accordancewith otherrecognisedspecifications

b The provision of a suitable automatic extinguishing installation in lieu of

sprinklers in a building or parts of a building where the use of water might entail a
risk.

15
 c The omission of sprinkler installations in:-
i flats and/or maisonettes; and
ii open sided vehide parkswhich are provided with openingsin the external
enclosures affording permanentventilation to each storey from the external air
to an extent not less than 5% in freearea ofthe floor area of the vehicle park
so arranged on opposingfaces as to provide adequate cross ventilation to all
parts;
are so designed that no car parking space is more than 30m from a source of
the ventilation referred to above;
are so positioned next to streets or upon a site as to permit easy access for
fire brigade appliances to a sufficient part of its perimeter to enable fire within
any part ofthe structureto be attacked from the exterior;
have any petrol service facilities external to the main structure with a
satisfactory standardof separation.

Note
Regardingsprinkler installations generally:

I Wherethespace above an imperforate false ceiling irrespective ofits depth,

is sealed completely and does not contain any combustible materials, sprinkler
heads needonly be provided on the underside of the false ceiling. In othercases
notconformingwith theseconditions, sprinkler heads wouldbe required both above
and belowthefalse ceilingunlessthe Council otherwise decides afterconsideration
of submitted details ofthe false ceiling, the equipment and services located in the
voidspace above the false ceiling and any use to which the void space is put.

ii In cases where it appears that any alteration to the building, erection of

partitioning, etc., may impair the efficient operation of the sprinkler installation, a
condition will be imposed requiring any necessary alteration to the sprinkler
installation to be camedoutto the satisfaction ofthe Council.

iii Where a plenum extract system in a false ceiling voidis designed to extract
smoke and hot gases (in lieu ofnatural smoke ventilation via openable windows)
sprinklers will not be required within the ceiling void. The ceiling void should be
surroundedby non combustible construction andcontain no combustible material.

2.08 Automatic fire extinguishing installations (other than

sprinklers)
Areas not coveredby sprinklers should be providedwith a suitable alternative fixed
automaticfire extinguishing systemin accordancewith the relevant part of BS 5306.

2 In certain instanceswhere adequateseparation, ventilation and fire brigade access

is provided, consideration will be given to the omission of any extinguishing
installation in certain areas. Such areas include:-

a Oil fuelled heating chambers.

b Oil storage chambers.

c Transformer chambers or high voltage switch rooms.

d Telecommunicationsframe rooms.

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2.09 Hose reels and hand fire appliances
I
Hosereelsin accordance with BS6306: Part and BS5274 connected to a suitable
water supply and suitable hand fire appliances of approved type, pattern and
capacity, should be provided in all buildings.

Note
Consideration will normally be given to the omission of hose reels and hand fire
appliances in flats and/or maisonettes.

2.10 Smokecontrol systems

Smoke extraction should be provided from each storey by openable windows or by
a mechanicalsmoke extract system.
Note
A more complex smoke control system may be required in some buildings for
means ofescape purposes.

2 If ventilation is to be provided by openable windows these should be equivalent to

2Y2% of the total floor area and be well distributedat high level so as to provide
cross ventilation. No openablewindows should be locked shutwithout an approval
to the locking arrangementsbeing first obtained. Where it is required that windows
be keptlocked dosed thelocking arrangements shouldnormallybe by a budget type
lock to the satisfaction of the Council. (See also 1.03).

3 A mechanical smoke extract system should be designed to achieve either 6 air

changes/hour, ora dear spaceof I.75m above floor level to the base of the smoke
layer. (Forthe purposesof achieving this design requirement a fire size of 9m2 area
with a heat output of 1.5MW should be assumed.) Where the means of escape in
case of fire is based on a single stage evacuationthe heat output ofthe fire should
be assumed to be IMW.*
* Where a heat output is specified for a design fire size in this document an
allowancehas been made for heat loss to the structure and to the sprinkler spray.

a The fans should be located in an area enclosed by construction having a one

hourstandard offire resistance.

b The followingshould be provided and the operationof any one should cause
the smoke control system to operate:-
i sprinkler flow switches;
Ii fire brigade override switch; and
iii smoke detectors in the return air duct or ducts at each storey level.
Thesystemshouldbe capable of extracting smoke for a period of at least one hour.

c The necessary extract plant should be provided in not less than two equal
parts sited remote from each other such that a fault or failure in one will not
jeopardise the other.

Note
The detectors referred to above should also be linked into the fire control centre.
Provision should be made to ensure that any regular testing of the fire alarm
installation does notjeopardise the reliability ofthe smoke control plant.

17
 d The fans should be capable of extractingsmoke at a temperature of 300°C
for one hour irrespective of any design smoke temperature.
e The fans and associated smoke control equipment should be wired in
protected circuits designed to ensure continuedoperation in the event of fire and
should -
i consist of mineral-insulated,metal-sheathedcables complying with the
requirements of BS 6207: Part 1, or other heat resisting cables; or be cables
complying with BS 6387 'British Standard specification for cables required to
maintain circuit integrity under fire conditions. (The cables should be of the
category appropriateto the particular installation);
ii be separate from any other circuit provided for otherpurposes.

I The electrical supply to thefans should, in each case, be connected to a sub-

main circuit exclusive thereto afterthe main isolator of the building.

g A secondarysource of electrical power (a generator or othersuitable source

of power) should be provided to ensurethat the smoke control system can operate
for a penod of not less than one hour in the event of failure of the normal electrical
supply.

h Replacement air should be provided as necessary to ensure that the design

objectives can be achieved.

i The discharge points for the smoke extract system should be located such
that they will not cause smoke to be recirculatedinto the building or to spread to
adjoining buildings.

Note
Ifthe building is to incorporate an atnum a separate smoke control system should
be provided in accordance with The London Disfnct Surveyors Association Fire
Safety Guide No. 2 Fire Safety in Atnum Buildings.

4 All areas belowground level should be vented eithernaturally by pavement lights

or stall boardlights, of a type satisfactory to the Council, equivalent in area to 2½%
ofthetotal area ofthefloor or by a mechanicalextract system to be agreed on the
merits of the individual case.

Note
Favourable consideration will normally be given to mechanical smoke extract
systemsproviding six air changes/hour in office accommodation below ground
level. High fire nsk areas, such as storage, would need to be subject to special
consideration.

5 Oil filled transformers and other special fire risk and ancillary areas should be
vented in accordancewith 2.10(4) and 2.10(5) except that where appropriate the
design fire size should be in accordance with 2.11(3). In the case of stockrooms
special consideration will be neededwhere a mechanical system is to be used.

18
2.11 Smoke control systems - Retail premises
Smoke extraction should be provided from each floor by either openable windows
or by a mechanical extract system.

2 If ventilation is to be provided by openable windows these should be as specified

in 2.10(2).

3 A mechanical smoke extract system should be designed to keep a clear space of

at least I .75m above floor level to the base of the smoke layer.

For the purpose of achieving this design requirementa fire size of 9m2 should be
assumed with a heat output of 5MW.

4 The system should otherwise be as specified in 2.10(3) above.

Note
Ifa retailstore is to incorporate an atriumit should include a smoke control system
in accordance with the London District Surveyor's Association Fire Safety Guide
on Fire Safety in Atrium Buildings.
5 All areas below ground level including all areas of special fire risk and ancillary
areas shouldbe vented in accordancewith 2.10(4) and 2.10(5) except that where
appropriate the design fire size should be in accordancewith 2.11(3). In the case
ofstockrooms special considerationwill be neededwhere a mechanical system is
to be used.

6 In thecase of enclosed shopping complexes the smoke control system should be

as specified in B21314.

Note
Guidanceon smoke control methods in enclosed shopping complexes is given in
a Building Research Establishment report. (See Smoke control methods in
enclosedshopping complexes of one ormore storeys. A design summary HMSO
1979).

2.12 Smoke control systems in car parks and loading bays

Smoke extraction should be provided by natural ventilation or by a mechanical
smoke extract system.

2 If ventilation is to be provided by natural means this should be by an area of vent

equivalent to 2%% of each floor area uniformly distributed to provide cross-
ventilation. In the case of small car parks the ventilation may be provided at least
in part by the entry ramp provided that it is directto open air or by a combination
of natural venting including the ramp supported by some additional mechanical
extraciton (viz a system providing at least ten air changes per hour.)

Note
lMere loadingbays are entereddirectfrom theexternalair no additional ventilation
willnormally be required. If the car park orloading bay is below ground levelthe
ventilation should be by pavement lights orstall board lights.

19
 3 A mechanical smoke extract system should be designedto achieve either
a 10 air changeslhour uniformly distributed across the car park (provided that
if the floor area is less than 4000m2 the vehicle park must be approached directly
from outside the building e.g. via a ramp or suitably vented service road.)

Note
If the car park is less than 4000m2in area and is not directly approached from
outside the building a higherextract ratemay be required; or

b a clear space of 1.75m high below the base of the smoke layer. For the
purposes of achievingthis designrequirement a fire size of 5m x 1 .75m with a heat
output of 1.5MW should be assumed.

The system should otherwise be as specified in 2.10.

2.13 Smoke control systems in factories or

warehouse buildings
Smoke extraction should normally be provided from each floor by natural means
with a vent area equivalentto 2½ of the floor area or in the case of a special fire
risk area by a vent area equivalent to 5% ofthe floor area. This can be provided by
openable windowsor where appropriate by automatic roof vents. The latter should
be capable of being actuated by fusible links at a temperature of 74°C and by a fire
brigadeoverridecontrol nearground level within a separatedarea of low fire risk.
If venting is to be provided by openable windos they should be as specified in
2.10(2).
2 Where it is not practical to provide venting by natural means considerationwill be
given to a mechanical system of extraciton.The design of a mechanical system
would be dependent on thetype of risk and the size of fire which could occur. Each
case will need to be assessed on its individual merits.

2.14 Fire brigade access to the exterior of the building

The building should abut upon a street or streets or upon open spaces of sufficient
width and extent to give satisfactory access and working space for fire brigade
appliances.

2 Open spaces or access strips likely to be used for fire appliances should be
constructed and paved so as safely to support the heaviest type of appliance.
Details of the loading and distribution will be supplied when approval is granted.

For full details of these requirements reference should be made to the current
information sheet FP Gen 20 obtainablefrom the local Fire Prevention offices of
the London Fire and Civil DefenceAuthority.

20
2.15 Fire brigade access to the interior of the building
Fire fighting shafts - provision and siting

a In buildings controlled by virtue of their height, fire fighting shafts equipped

with fire fightingstairways, dry (orwet) rising mains and fire fighting lifts, should be
provided to serve every storey.

b In buildings controlled by virtue of their cubical extent, fire fighting shafts

equipped with fire fighting stairways, should be provided where the building has
more than one storey and is over 7.5m in height. Fire fighting shafts equipped with
fire fighting stairways, dry (or wet) rising mains and fire fighting lifts should be
provided in such buildings where they exceed 18m in height.

c In buildings where there is a storey more than 9m belowfire brigade access

level, fire fighting shaftsequippedwith fire fighting stairways, dry falling mains and
lifts should be provided to serve every storey from fire brigade access level
downwards.

2 The number and siting of shafts should be as follows:-

a one for a building with a floor area less than 900 sq m;

b two for a building with a floor area between 900 and 2000 sq m;

c three for a buildingwith a floor area between 2001 and 3500 sq m; and

d one for every1500 sq m offloor area or part thereof in buildings with a larger
floor area.

Notes
i Firefightingshafts shouldbe located so that everypart ofeverystorey other
than fire bngade access level is no more than 60m from the entrance to a fire
if
fighting shaftmeasuredalong the routea hose wouldbe laid or the internal layout
is unknown at the design stageso that everypartofeverystorey is no more than
40m in a directlinefromthe entrance to a fire fighting shaft.

ii In the case ofbuildings controlledby virtue of their height, the areas referred
to in (a)-(d) should be taken as those that occurin the first storey over 25m in
height.

3 Firefighting shafts - general arrangements

a Fire fighting shafts should be designed in accordance with the

recommendationsof BS 5588: Part 5 except that, notwithstanding Clause 8.6 of
the BS a separate vent shaftfor the stairway in internally - sited fire fighting shafts
need not be provided in sprinkleredbuildings.

Note
Fire fighting shafts in blocks of flats and/or maisonettes should be provided in
accordancewith the recommendationsofBS 5588: Part 1.*

*jfl preparation.

21
2.16 Fire control centres
The fire brigade when responding to an emergency in a building should have the
indicator panels and associated manual controls for the building's fire protection
systems located together in one place designated as the fire control centre.

This will enable the operational status of the fire protection systems to be readily
visible and allows any necessary manual operation of an installation to be carried
outwithout undue delay.
All office buildings, enclosed shopping complexes, retail stores, hotels and
hospitals should be providedwith a Fire Control Centre.

Fire control centres may be considered necessary in other buildings such as

storage buildings dependent upon their size, complexity and use.

2 Subjectto theequipment required to be contained therein,a fire control centre may

be located in

I a suitably protectedarea,
ii a room dedicated solely as a fire control centre,
iii or combinedwith a management/securitycentre within the building.

Note
Any console layout within a combined fire/secunty centre should clearly
differentiate between fire and secunfy systems.

3 A fire control centre should, unless the Council otherwise consent:-

a be manned, by a competentperson, familiarwith theuse and operation of the

equipment containedtherein, whilst the building is occupied;
b be locatedin a room orarea of low fire risk separatedfrom other areas to the
samestandardof fire resistance as the elements of structure of the area in which
it is situated;
c should be adjacent to a fire brigade accesspoint preferably the main entrance
to the building and accessible directfrom open air; and

d in addition to the normal lighting, be provided with a 3 hournon-maintained

systemof lightingsuppliedfrom a source entirely independent of the normal lighting
to enable the fire control centre to be observed and operated satisfactorily in the
absence of the normal lighting supply.

4 A firecontrol centre should contain some or all of the following as appropriate:-

a indicator panels showing the status of all automatic fire protection
installations and/or facilities including the main fire alarm panel;

b manual overrideswitches associatedwith such installations and/or facilities

(other than those which are required to be located either adjacent to their
equipmentor elsewhere e.g., overrides for gaseous fire extinguishing systems or
sprinkler system main or floor isolating valves);

22
 c manual overrides for any large air conditioning system or those involving
recirculation;

d communication facilitiesproviding a direct link between the centre and all fire
fighting lobbies;

e dedicatedtelephone with direct dialling for external calls;

f a publicaddresssystemcommunicating with all parts ofthe building, installed

and wired in accordance with BS 5839: Part 1. (The system should be audible
throughout the building and be capable of communicating with all parts of the
building simultaneously or with individual locations only(e.g., individualfloors). The
system should be so arranged that the loss of equipment on any floor does not
prevent communicationwith all otherfloors);

g detailed instructions of the building's fire evacuation plan;

h floor plans of the building indicating all fire fighting equipment and
installations;

i at least two keys to the locks on windows locked by means of budget locks
provided in a suitably labelled glass-frontedbox (see 1.03(3));

j telephone numbers of principal building staff/engineers e.g., lift engineer,

electrician, plumber,security etc.; and

k such other facilities as directed by the Council.

2.17 Display of plans etc

In all cases of buildings constructed with basement storeys the Councilwill require
a suitableplan(s)of such underground storey(s) to be hung in an approved position
in the ground storey, such plan(s) to indicate thereon the location of essential
controls (e.g., gas, electricity and water) so as to assist in the direction of fire
fighting in the event of fire in the basement storey(s).

2 Similarplans may be required at otherfloor levels where considered necessaryto

assist fire fightingoperations. In particular,where openablewindows are locked by
means of budget locks the position of such windows should be indicated:-

i upon a floor plan which should be displayed and maintainedin an approved

position within a staircase or within the lobby of a fire fighting lobby approach
staircase, or

ii where the openablewindows are unfirmly sited (and this should always be
the case whereverpossible)by a permanent notice in thefire lift or otherapproved
position.
The plan referred to in (I) or the notice referred to in (ii) should specify the method
ofidentifying the openablewindows and the type of release mechanism provided.
Note
Guidance on theprovisionand display ofbuilding plans is contained in the current
information sheafFP Gen 24 available from the local Fire Prevention officesof the
London Fire and Civil DefenceAuthority.

23
 Part 3
Special Fire Risk Areas
3.01 Heat producing appliances producing in excess of 220
kilowatts of heat

Oil fuel boiler chambers

a Where providedexternallyas a detached buildingand within 6pn of the main

building, the chamber should be enclosed by walls and a roof of non combustible
construction having a standard of fire resistance of not less than four hours. Any
openings within the external walls should be fitted with self-closing, 30 minute
doors. Any door and vent openings should be positioned so as to present the least
risk possible to the main building.
b All boiler chambers, whether in or adjoining the main building, should be
enclosedby walls and a roof of non combustibleconstruction having a standard of
fireresistance of notless than fourhours. Anyopenings in the walls giving access
to the building shouldbe protected by a single self-closing, 120 minute door. Where
in a multiple staircase building, access from the remainder of the building to the
boiler room is permitted from a staircase or from part of the building used by the
public, such access would need to be provided through a ventilated lobby having
a twohour standard of fire resistance with the access openingsto the lobby each
fittedwith a self-closing,60 minute door. Theamount of natural ventilation, direct
to the outerair, should be not less than 0.9m2.

c Other openings (i.e., those not giving access to the building) should be
protected by self-closing, 30 minute doors.

d Where, in accordance with the above, openings are permitted in the

enclosing walls ofthe boilerchamber, each opening should be provided with a non
combustible threshold not less than 75mm above the general level of the boiler
chamberunlessother approved means are takento preventthe spread of oil in the
event of a leakage.

e Apart from the boiler plant and such other apparatus as is necessary for its
operation, no otherequipment should be installed in the boiler chamber.

2 Oil fuel storage

a Where the oil storage is less than 6m from adjacent buildings thefollowing
should be complied with:-

the tanks should be contained within a chamber with walls and roof of non
combustible construction having not less than a four hour standard of fire
resistance. any access doorways, should each be fitted with a steel self-closing,
insulated 120 minute door. All necessary access doors and vent openings should
be positioned so as to present the least nskto adjacent buildings.

24
 As an alternative, in suitable cases the oil storagetanks may be permitted in the
open, providedthey are effectively screenedfrom adjacent buildings by imperforate
walls having a four hourstandard of fire resistance.

b Where oil storage adjoins, or is within a building, it should be enclosed by

walls and a roof of non combustible construction havinga fire resistance of not less
than fourhours. Any openings in the walls giving access to the building should be
protected by a single self-closing insulated 120 minute door.

Note
Wherea boilerchamberis locatedmorethan 12m above ground/eve/themain oil
storagetank shouldbe sited in accordance with and shouldconform with 3.01(2a)
or 3.01(2b) foregoing. In such cases a service tank not exceeding 910 litres in
capacity may be sited adjacent to the boiler chamber provided it is separated
therefrom and totally enclosed with non combustible construction having a
standardoffire resistance of notless than fourhours. In addition, thesupplypipe
between the main storage chamber and the ser,ice tank should be within its own
non combustibleduct having a similarperiod offire resistance.
Where the service tank chamber is entered direct from the boiler chamber,
provision should be made for automatic dumping of the oil in accordance with
Section 31 of BS 5410: Part 2. For this purpose, a pipe of adequate diameter
shouldbettaken by the most directroute from the bottomofthe service tank to the
storage tankor tanks. A dumping valve, normally closed, shouldbe fittedin this
pipe at a point within the service tank chamber and should be arranged to open
automatically in the fire valve or the alarm system operates. Applicants should
seek earlyconsultation with the Council's officers in such cases.

c In all cases the sill level ofaccess doorways should be raised above the floor
level so as to form a catchpit within the chamber having a capacity not less than
10 per centgreaterthan the total capacity ofthetank(s)therein. The walls and floor
of the oil fuel storage chamber should be constructed of impervious non
combustible materials and ventilation and pipe ducts, etc., should be arranged so
as to maintain the catchpit formation and the fire resisting standard of the
enclosures.

d Adequate permanent installed lighting fittings of totally enclosed pattern

should be provided in the storagetank chamber and only transfer pumps and such
other electrical equipmentas must necessarily be installed in close proximityto the
storage tanks should be within the storage chamber and all such apparatus should
be of the totallyendosed type. The controls for any electrical equipment or lighting
circuit within the storage tank chamber should be installed outside the tank
chamber and any electrical immersion heater fitted in the oil tanks should be
thermostatically controlled and should be so arranged as to remain submerged at
all times.

The installation should also be in accordancewith the relevant provisions of the

current editions of BS 5410 'Oil Firing' and BS 799 'Oil-burning Equipment'.

3 Other boiler chambers

These should be separated from the remainder of the building by walls and floors
and roofof non combustibleconstruction having a standard offire resistance not
less than that required for thepart ofthebuildingin which theyare situated and any
internal opening thereto should be providedwith a self-dosing 60 minute door.

For gas boilers rated between 60kw and 2Mw, the installations should be in
accordancewith BS 6644. 1986.

25
 4 Ventilationto boiler chambersand oil fuel storage chambers
a Everyboilerchambershould be providedwith ventilation adequateto ensure
a supplyof air sufficient for both combustion and general ventilation. Where the
boilerchamberis ventilatedby natural means and forced or induced draught is not
provided, the air necessary for combustion should be afforded by permanent
openings, at low level to the outside air, a total free area of not less than 0.2m2
being provided for each 300kw of installed boiler capacity. In addition permanent
openings to the outer air having a total free area of not less than 0.1m2 per 300kw
of installed boiler capacity should be provided at high level to effect general
ventilation and to remove smoke and fumes. If a mechanical system of ventilation
is necessary it should be independent of any system serving other parts of the
premises.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the fuel used is town or natural gas then the
should
required naturalventilationopenings forcombustion and general ventilation
be 645mm2 for every 0.58kw at low level and halfthat area at high level.

b Oil fuel storage chambersshou'd be ventilated direct to the outerair butonly

to the extent necessaryto avoid stagnation of the air therein.
c Any shafts necessary for ventilating boiler chambers and oil fuel storage
chambersshould be enclosedand separated from the remainder of the building by
non combustible materials having the same standard of fire resistance as the
enclosures to the chamber or as required for the remainder of the building
whichever is the greater.

5 Generally

a Details of all oil fuel installations and ventilation arrangementsto all boiler
rooms will be required to be submitted to the Councilfor approval and no oil fuel
or oil in bulk should be used or stored upon premises until approval of the Council
has been obtained thereto.

b A fixed automatic fire extinguishing installation may be required in some

circumstances, eg. where difficulty of access for fire fighting arises, and a fixed
automatic fire extinguishinginstallationwill be required to be provided in all cases
where the full requirements for oil fuel boiler chambers and oil fuel storage
chambers in 3.01(1) and 3.01(2) cannot be met.

3.02 Fixed internal combustion engines

Fixed internal combustionengines(including a gas turbine engine) designed
to produce in excess of 44 kilowatts of power.
Petrol driven engines, where installed in any part of a building, should be in a room
separated from the remainder of the building by non combustible construction
having a standard of fire resistance of not less than four hours. Any doortherein
should be a self closing 120 minute door. The room should be ventilated direct to
the outerair.

Note
Additionalworks may be required by The Chief Officer of the London Fire and Civil
Defence Authority under the Petroleum (Consolidation)Act 1928.

26
 2 Diesel oil driven engines, where within the building, should be enclosed by walls
and a roof, of non combustibleconstruction having a standard of fire resistance of
not less than four hours.Anyopenings in the walls should be protected by a single
self-closing 120 minute door.

Note
Oilstorage in connection with the foregoing should comply with the requirements
foroil fuel storage in 3.01(2).
3 Electrical installations should be in accordance with the current edition of the
Regulations of the Institution of Electrical Engineers.

3.03 Transformer substations

Transformer sub-stations and switch rooms containing electrical oil cooled
transformers or oil filled switch gear with an oil capacity in excess of 250
litres, operatingat a supply voltage in excess of 1000 volts.
Where the transformer sub-station and/or switch room is provided externally as a
detached building and is within 6m of the main building or is adjoining the main
building, it should be enclosed by walls and a roof of non combustible construction
having a standard of fire resistance of not less than four hours. All openings in the
external walls or roof should be positioned so as to present the least risk to the
mainbuilding, i.e. in the external wall furthest removedfromthe main building.

2 Where providedwithin thebuildingthetransformerchamber or switch room should

be situated against an outer wall and the walls and floors separating it from the
remainder of the building should be of non combustible construction having a
standard offire resistance of not less than fourhours.

3 Floors and walls should be imperforate except as provided for in thefollowing.

4 Proper and easy access for fire fighting, inspection and maintenance should be
provided direct fromthe external air whenever possible.

5 In difficult cases, where it is impossible to approach the transformer chamber or

switch room from the external air, internal communication may be permitted.

6 Where the communication is from a portion of the building not occupied by the
public and not being a stairway the doorway should be fitted with a hinged 120
minute doorfitting closelyinto a steel or iron frame and arranged to be kept locked
shut by triple action bolts, securedon the outsideby a padlock or similar fastenings
such as can be easily broken by the fire brigade.

7 Where the internal communicationis from a portion of the building occupied by the
public or from a stairway (other than in a building having only one stairway)the
communication should be by means of a lobby naturally ventilated to the outerair
to an extent not less than 0.4m2, constructed with walls and floors of non
combustible construction having not less than a two-hour standard of fire
resistanceand the doors fromthe building or stairway into the lobby and from the
lobby into the chamber or room should each be self-closing 60 minute doors.

8 To prevent a build up of heat, ventilation to the outer air should be provided and
maintained and any trunkingor ducts forthis purpose should be separated fromthe
remainderof the building by construction having not less than a four-hour standard
of fire resistance.

27
 9 Adequateprecautionsshould be taken to prevent the spread of fire resulting from
theleakageor ignition of oil by the provision of a suitable catchpit or other means,
as defined in 3.01(2)(c).

10 Where it is necessary to provide arrangements for the transfer of plant, an opening

not exceeding6m2 in area may be provided if it is fitted with a steel or iron frame
continuous around all foursides of the opening with a 75mm rebate into which is
fitted a steel panel comprising a 6mm thick steel plate stiffened with 100mmby
6mm steel stiles and rails secured to each face or with steel angle or tee framing
on the inner face. The panel should be hung on not less than three hinges and
securedshut by not less than three steel bolts and nuts, through the thickness of
the frame and panel in position opposite and in line with the hinges. The plant
access panel shouldbe made smoke-proof. If a portion of the panel is to be hinged
to open as an access door, the opening portion should be constructed as a steel
door in conformity with theforegoing and shouldbe hung to a steel frame fitted into
theopening and secured to thewalland panel. If owing o the width ofthe access
as
panel it is necessary forit to be in two leaves it should be hinged on both sides
descnbed aboveto a central steel upright not less than 100mm wide and 6mm, in
thickness which may be made moveable to facilitate plant access.

The panelshould be markedpermanently in 25mm blockletters 'THIS PANEL NOT

TO BE OPENED EXCEPTTO TRANSFERPLANT'.

11 The electrical equipmentgenerally should conform to the appropriate specifications

of the British Standards Institutioncurrent at thetime of installationand should be
type-tested to withstand the maximum fault energy to which it is liable
to be
subjected. Full details of the electrical arrangements should be submitted for
approval.
Notes
i In certain cases the Council may require that the aggregate capacity be
dividedamong a numberoftransformers, orgroup of transformers,separated from
each otherby non combustiblescreens ofadequatestrength having a standard of
tire resistance of notless than four hours to limit the possibility of spread of fire
from one transformer, or group oftransformers, to another. Each transformer or
group of transformers should be provided with separate sumpage or other
approved means ofpreventing the spread of oil in the event ofleakage.
II Transformer chambers not complying with 3.03(1 to 8) will need to be
protected by a suitable automatic extinguishinginstallation.

3.04 Nitrate film and celluloid storage

Fullparticularsregarding thestorageofcelluloid and celluloidfilm etc are available
from the London District Surveyors Association.

3.05 Cellulose and other flammable liquid spraying rooms

A room used for spraying cellulose or otherflammable liquids should, wherever
possible, be situated in the topmost storey. Where such a position is not possible
the room should abut upon an external wall.

28
2 All spraying rooms should be enclosed with walls or partitions constructed of non
combustible matenals having not less than a one hourstandard of fire resistance.

3 All spraying rooms should be provided with at least two doorways in approved
positionswith the doors thereto hung to open outwards and providedwith a sight
panel of clearfire resisting glazing.

4 All doorwaysto a spraying room should be fitted with selfclosing 30 minute doors
and, where large doors not readily made self-closing are provided, they should be
kept closed whilst spraying is in progress and be permanently marked to that effect
in 50mm block letters.

Note
In the case of certain proprietary car finishing booths the Council would be
preparedto give considerationto modifyingthe standard of the enclosures referred
to upon the submission of full details having regard to the risk in relation to the
building as a whole.

6 Electrical equipment and wiring systems should comply with the current edition of
the Regulations ofthe Institution of Electrical Engineers, and should be suitable for
I
use in a 'Zone area' (BS 5345) except that if installed outside thevapour stream
and not within or on the immediate threshold of a spraying booth where a spraying
I
booth is used or if installed more than .500m above the highest point at which
spraying takes place where no spraying booth is used, equipment and wiring
systems suitable for use in a 'Zone 2 area' may be employed.

7 Anyheating should preferably be by means of steam or hot water. Other types of

heating may be approved if safe in a flammableatmosphere.

Note
The surface temperature ofany heating apparatus should not exceed 200°C.

8 Thespraying room should be adequatelyventilated to the outerair by mechanical

means to the satisfaction of theCouncil.

9 Details of the proposed ventilation, heating, lightingand electrical arrangementsfor

the spraying roomswill be required to be submitted before the work is commenced
and the arrangementsshould be carried outto the satisfaction of the Council.

10 All spraying hoods should be constructed of non combustible materials and not
more than two spraying hoods or booths should be connected to a common
exhaust trunking. The exhaust should be at low level.

Note
i Special consideration by the Council will be necessary ofany proposals for
belt conveyors or other systems of production involving spraying within
compartments in which other processes are also carried on. In these
circumstances adequate provision for the separation of the spraying area
particularly where the belt conveyor perforates such separation, should be made
which may alsonecessitate a rolling steel shutteror a fire door of the appropriate
standard operated by a fusible link.

29
 ii The storage and use for spraying purposes of liquids which are petroleum
mixtures as defined in the Petroleum (Mixtures) Order 1929 are subject to the
licensing provisions of the Petroleum (Consolidation) Act 1928, and any
requirements made underthis Act shouldbe compiledwith. The Licensing authority
forthispurpose is the LondonFire and CivilDefenceAuthority.
iii Thestorageand use ofcellulose solutions are subject to Regulations made
underthe FactonesAct 1961 and may also require the approval of H.M. Inspector
ofFactories.

3.06 Loading bays

Loadingbays in a basement and/or car park
Note
Loading bays serving trade or manufacturing use should be separated from all
otherareas including carparks.

a Where loading bayis withina car park orwithin a basement used for loading
and unloading of goods it should be separatedform any otherpart of the building
by non combustibleconstruction having not less than a four-hour standard of fire
resistance. All supporting membersthereto, together with the supporting members
to the building above should be constructed or protected to a similar standardof
fire resistance.

b Access from the loading bay to the remainder of the building should be by
means of a ventilated lobbyconstructed to not less than a four-hour standard of fire
resistance. The doorways between the loading bay and the lobby and between the
lobbyand theremainderof thebuilding should each be fitted with a 20 minute
self-
closing door and, in addition, with a steel rolling shutter fitted on each side of the
ventilated lobby next the respective floor areas. The steel rolling shutters should
each be fitted with a fusible link set to fuse at a temperature not exceeding 74C
and be providedwith mechanical gearing.

c The floor ofthe lobby should be constructed of solid non combustiblematerial

and raised 150mm above the level of the loading bay.

d The lobby should be provided with natural ventilation to the external air not
less than 0.4m2 in thefree area. Anyshaftor duct in connection therewith should
be separated from the remainder of the building by construction of not less than a
four-hour standard of fire resistance and should be sited so as to prevent the
spread of fire, by way of adjacent openings in the external walls, to otherparts of
the building or to adjoining buildings.

Note
Consideration may be given to the omission of the ventilated lobby where
loading/unloadingfacilities are provided to the basement of contiguous 'lock-up'
typepremisesor othersimilardevelopments. Where this is permitted the following
standards would need to be observed:-

i the vehicular area should be otherwise generally in accordance with the

standards applicable to underground vehicle parks.

II the basement of each of the shop premises should be separated from the
vehicular area by non combustibleconstruction having notless than a four-hour
standard of fire resistance with any openings therein protected by a single steel
rolling shutteron a fusible link and, in addition with self-closing 60 minute door.

30
 iii the basement of each of the shop premises should be separated from the
remainderof theshoppremises overby non combustible construction having not
less than a two-hourstandardoffire resistancewith all stairs, lifts and shafts in the
basementenclosedto a similarstandardofconstruction with any access openings
therein protected by self-closing 60 minute doors.

iv the provision of not less than 0.9m2 of permanent ventilation from the
basement ofeach shopor othersuitable alternative acceptable to the CounciL

v the basementportion ofeach oftheshop premises should be usedgenerally

for storagepurposes only, with rio retailtrade or access for thepublic thereto.
2 Loading bays at oraboutground level or aboveand not adequatelyventilated

Loading bays at or about ground level approached directly from and open to the
external air on at least one side, should be separated from the remainder of the
building by non combustibleconstruction having not less than a two-hour standard
of fire resistance. Openings between the loading bay and the remainder of the
building should be fitted with a single steel rolling shutter on a fusible link set to
fuse at a temperature notexceeding 74°C.

3 Loading bays used additionallyforthe garaging of vehicles

a Loading bays at or about ground level intended also to be used for the
garaging of vehicles should be separated from the remainder of the building by
solid non combustible construction having notless than a two-hour standard of fire
resistance.

b Access to the remainder of the building from the loading bay should be by
meansof a ventilatedlobbyconstructedto not less than a two-hour standard of fire
resistance providedwith inner and outerself-closing 30 minute doors and a single
steel rolling shutteron the loading bay side on a fusible link as described in (2)(a).
The lobby should be provided with permanent ventilation to the external air to an
extent not less than 0.4m2 in area and the floor of the lobby should be raised
150mm above the level of the loading bay.

4 Loading bays usedadditionally forthe garaging ofvehicles and not exceeding

500m2 in area

a Loading bays at or about ground level intended also to be used for the
garagingof vehicles and not exceeding 500m2 in area, should be separated from
the remainderof the building with any openings therein protected all as described
in (2)(a) and in addition by a self-closign 30 minute door.

5 Generally

a Loading bays should be provided with fire-extinguishing appliances and

installations in accordancewith Part 2 ofthis Guide; this would normally include an
automatic sprinklerinstallation or such otherextinguishing equipment satisfactory
to the Council.

b All steel rolling shutters and any 30 minute or 60 minute doors fitted to
openings should be kept in the closed position when loading and unloading is not
taking placeand a permanent notice in 50mm plain letters to that effectshould be
providedone each sideof the opening.

31
 c Loading bays below ground level whether used for thegaraging of vehicles
or not should conform with the general requirements for car parks as regards
mechanical ventilation, smoke outlets, sprinklers, etc., in accordancewith Part2.

d Loading bays should be provided with smoke control in accordance with

Part 2.

Note
KeepingofPetroleumSpirit forFuelling Motor Vehicles
The keeping of petroleum spirit is subject to the provisions of the Petroleum
(Consolidation) Act, 1928, and the regulations made thereunder, and any
requirements made under the Act or regulations mustbe complied with. (In this
connection, car parkscontaining 12 or more cars generally require licences.)

3.07 Car parks

Note
Attention is drawn to the need for consultation with the London Fire and Civil
DefenceAuthorityregardingthe requirements of the Petroleum (Consolidation)Act
1928.

General requirementsfor all car parks

Construction generally

Car parks should be constructed wholly of non combustiblematerials.

2 Stairways
a A sufficient number of stairways should be provided throughout the carpark
for fire-fighting purposes.
b Stairways should generally be sited next to external walls with access direct
to the external air at ground level and should not be more than 60m apart.

c Fire-fighting lobby-approach stairwaysand fire lifts should be provided when

necessary in accordancewith 2.15.

3 Special fire risk areas

a The car park should be separated from all other special fire risk areas by
walls and floors havingtheappropriate standard offire resistance (viz the standard
of fire resistance applicable to the higher risk). Such separations should be
imperforate except where permitted in 3.06.

4 Heating, lighting, electrical and ventilation arrangements

a In most cases it will be necessaryto submitdetailsof the various installations

for approval.

b Car parks should be provided with adequate ventilation and, except where
specifically referred to herein, this should be by natural means with permanent
openings aggregating not less than 2½ per cent of the floor area so arranged to
createthrough currents of air and sited so as to prevent the spread of fire (by way
of adjacent openings in the external walls) to otherparts of the building.

32
5 Repair service

Any portion of a car park used for repair services should be separated from the
main floor area by non combustible walls and/or partitionspossessing notless than
a one hour standardof fire resistance. Doorways in such separation should each
be fittedwith a 30 minute self-closing doorand all necessary precautionswill need
to be taken to ensure that any flame producing apparatus is a safe distance from
the main carpark risk.

6 Loading bays

Loading bays where permitted to be within or untied with car parks should be in
accordancewith 3.06.

7 Electricaland mechanicalequipment

a Electrical apparatus (including luminaires)if installed below the general car

park floor level, or in other similarly hazardous positions, should be of a type
I
suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres (apparatus Group IA) Zone
I areas in accordancewith BS 5345.

b Electrical apparatus (including luminaires) if installed at floor level or within

I.2m abovefloor level should be of a type suitable for use in potentially explosive
atmospheres (apparatus Group 1 IA) Zone2 areas in accordancewith BF 5345.

c All electrical apparatus in the car park should be suitably protected from
mechanical damage.

Note
Where a mechanical system of parking is proposed the Council will require full
details to be submitted.

d Any electrical equipment installed within the air stream of a mechanical

extract ventilation system should be of a type suitable for use in potentially
I I
explosive atmospheres (apparatus Group IA) Zone areas in accordancewith
BS 5345.

8 Heating equipment

a Any heating equipment inside the car park should be of a type safe in the
presence of flammable vapour.

Note
Motorcoach parks etc
Proposals involving the accommodationof motorcoaches, lorries orsimilarpublic
service vehicles in enclosed and covered areas require special consideration to
limit the extent of fire spread and to ensure adequate facilities for fire fighting,
including the removal of heat and smoke. The Council's officers should be
consulted at an earlystageof the design.

33
3.08 Underground car parks
Separation

a Thecarpark should be separatedfrom any otherpart of the building by non

combustible construction having not less than a four hour standard of fire
resistance.

b Small car parks should be separatedfrom any other part of the building by
non combustible construction having not less than a four hour standard of fire
resistance.

c All supporting members thereto should be to a similar standard of fire

resistance.

2 Elements of structure

a The elements of structure within the car park together with any necessary
compartmentwalls and floors should havenot less than a two hourstandard of fire
resistance.

b The car park should be subdivided into compartments so that each storey
forms a separate compartment and no compartment exceeds 1400m3 in extent
(see Note (ii) hereunder).

c Stairwayand lift shafts should be enclosed by non combustibleconstruction

therein
having not less than a two hour standard of fire resistance with openings
fitted with self-closing 30 minute doors and with steel rolling shutters on the floor
area side.

d Where necessary for the proper sub-division into compartments ramps

should be providedwith a single steel rolling shutter on a fusible link set to fuse at
74°C.

e Openings in compartment walls should be fitted with a single steel rolling

shutter on a fusible link and perforations in compartment walls and floors for
ventilation and similaropenings should be fitted with dampers of a type acceptable
to the Council held open only by means of a fusible link.

Note
I in cases where fire-fighting is difficult it may be necessary to furthersub-
divide the car park into smallercompartments.

ii compartmentation may be as specified in B2/3/4 subjectto the fire resistance

of the structural elements beingof the standard specified therein.
3 Communicationwith remainderof building at same level

a Access should be by way of a ventilated lobby constructed to not less than

a fourhour standard offireresistance. Thedoorways between the car park and the
be
lobby and between the lobby and the remainder of the building should each
fitted with a self-closing 30 minute doorand in addition with a steel rolling shutter
fitted on each side of the ventilated lobby next the respective floor areas. The
shuttersshould each be fitted with a fusible link and be provided with mechanical
gearing.

34
 b The floor of the lobby should be constructed of solid non combustible
materials and should be raised not less than 150mm above the level of the vehicle
park floor.

c The lobbyshould be provided with natural ventilation to the external air to an

extent not less than 0.4m2 in free area. Any shaft or duct in connectiontherewith
should be separated from the remainder of the building by construction having the
same standard of fire resistance as the enclosures to the lobby.

d In the case of a small car park the ventilated lobby may be constructed to a
two-hourstandardof fire resistance and the doorway openings therein each fitted
with a 60 minute self-closing doorin lieu of shutters and 30 minute doors.

4 Communication by stairwayor passenger lift with the ground andlor the upper
storeys
a The enclosure to the stairway or lift, where within the car park should be
constructedof non combustibleconstruction possessingnot less than a four-hour
standard of fire resistance.

b Access from the car park to the stairway or lift, where within the car park
should be constructed of non combustible construction possessing not less than
a four-hour standard of fire resistance.
b Access from thecar park to thestairway or lift should be by means of a lobby
constructed and ventilated as described in 3.08(3). The doorway between the car
park and the lobby, and between the lobby and the stairway or lift should each be
fitted with a 30 minute self-closing doorand in addition the doorway between the
garage and the lobby should be fitted on the car park side with a steel rolling
shutter on a fusible link and provided with mechanical gearing.

c In thecase of a small car park the enclosure to the stairway or lift and to the
ventilated lobby may be constructed to a two-hour standard of fire resistance with
the doorway openings therein each fitted with a self-closing 60 minute door.

5 Communicationby stairway to the ground storey only

a Where the stairway communicateswith the ground storey only, and is sited
to the satisfaction of the Council, consideration will be given to the following
relaxations of the standards referred to in 3.08(4) each case being consideredon
its merits.

b The enclosureto the stairway in the basement and ground storeys may be
constructedto have a standard of fire resistance of not less than two hours.

c The ventilated lobby between the car park and the stairway may be omitted
and thedoorwaybetween the car park and thestairway fitted with a 30 minute self-
closing doorand a steel rolling shutter on a fusible link on the car park side and
provided with mechanical gearing. The doorway at the head of the stairway should
be fitted with a self-closing 30 minute door.

35
6 Prevention of vapour accumulation
a Whereverpracticable all basementcar parks should be providedwith natural
ventilation by means of permanent openings positionedto induce cross currents
and having a total area of not less than 2% per cent of the area of the floor.
Entrances may be included as providing part of this ventilationwhen closed only
by lattice typegates, and any such gates, shutter or doors to entrances should be
locked shut only by means of a padlock fastening such as can be easily broken by
fireman in an emergency.

b In addition to natural ventilation, mechanical ventilation should be provided

independent of any ventilating plant for other parts of the building.Where natural
ventilation to the full standarddescribed in 3.O8(6)(a) is provided, it will usually be
sufficient for the mechanical ventilation to provide for three changes of air per hour.

c Where natural ventilation to the standard of 3.08(6)(a) cannot be provided,

the niechanicalventilation will be required to overcome the worst conditions likely
to arise from the discharge of exhaust gases. The plant will need to be arranged
so that it can be run in two equal parts, each capable of providing not less than
three changes of air per hour when run separately, and so controlled that in the
eventoffailureof one part the other partcontinuesto function. A secondarysource
of electrical supply(orothersuitablesource ofpower) should be provided to ensure
that one part of the ventilation plant continues to function in the event of a failure
occurring in the principal source of supply. When the plant is not controlled
automatically it is recommended that a competent person be in constant
attendance to supervise the plant.

d Ventilating ducts should be constructed of non combustible materials and

where adjacent to or passing through other parts of the buildingthe ducts should
be constructed or protected so as to afford the same standardof fire resistance as
required forthe separation of the car park.

7 Smoke control

Smoke control should be provided as described in Part2.

8 Basement plans

Suitable plans of all basement storeys should be displayed in accordance with

2.17.

9 Deep basements

Proposals involving the formation of multi-storey car parks below ground will
require special consideration to ensure adequate facilities for fire-fighting, smoke
control and special arrangementsto ensure adequateventilation.

36
3.09 Enclosed car parks above ground which are not adequately
ventilated
Separation

a Thecarpark shouldbe separated from the remainder of the building by walls

and floors of non combustible construction having not less than a two hour
standard of fire resistance.

b Small car parks should be separated from the remainder of the building in
accordancewith B2/314.

2 Elements of structure

The elements of structure, together with any necessary compartment walls and
floors should have a standard of fire resistance of two hours.

The elementsof structure for small car parks should be in accordancewith B2/314.

3 Compartmentation

Compartmentationshould be in accordance with B2/314.

All openings in compartment walls should be fitted with steel rolling shutters on
fusible links.

Small perforations in compartment walls and floors should be protected as

described in 3.08(2).

4 Communication with remainderof building

Communicationbetween the car park and otherparts of the building at the same
level.

a Access should be by meansof a ventilatedlobby constructedto not less than

a two-hourstandard of fire resistance and providedwith inner and outer60 minute
self-closing doors. The lobby should be providedwith permanent ventilation to the
external air to an extent not less than 0.5m2 in free area.

b Access from small car parks may be direct by doorway communication

(withouta ventilated lobby) provided that such doorway is fitted with a self-closing
60 minute door.
5 Communication by stairway or passengerlift

a The enclosure to the stairway or lift, where within the car park should be of
non combustible construction having not less than a two hour standard of fire
resistance.

37
 b Access from the car park to the stairway or lift should be by means of a lobby,
constructed and ventilated as described in 3.09(4)(a).

c The doorway betweenthe car park and thelobby, and between the lobby and
thestaircaseor lift should each be fitted with a 30 minute self-closing doorand in
addition the doorway from the car park to the lobby should be fitted with a steel
rolling shutter on a fusible link and provided with mechanical gearing.

6 Smoke control

Smoke control should be provided as described in Part 2.

36
 Part 4
Buildings the Major Use of Which
Constitutes a Special Fire Risk
Note
These will generally be buildings ofadditional cubical extentwhoseprincipal use
will be for the manufacture treatment handling or storage of flammable or
combustible solids, liquids orgaseous substances in quantities likely to constitute
a hazardandinclude warehouses, factories, departmentalstores, flour and spice
mills etc. but may alsoinclude speculative buildings.

4.01 Construction generally

The building, including its roofs, shouldbe constructed generally throughout of non
combustible materials. Any external cladding should also be entirely of non
combustiblematerials.

4.02 Fire resistance of elements of structure

Elements of structure should have a four hour standard of fire resistance within
multi-storey buildings usedforthe bulk storage offlammable or combustible liquids
or solids.

2 In all other cases the elements of structure should have the standard of fire
resistance to meet B2/314.

Note
In buildings sued for the manufacture treatment or handling of flammable or
combustibleliquidsor solids wherearrangementsare made forthe bulk storage of
the liquids or solids other than those for use on a daily basis it should only be
necessary forthe bulk storage areas to have elements ofstructure having a four
hourstandard offire resistance.

4.03 Heating lighting, electrical and ventilating arrangements

Conditions will normally be imposed requiring details of the heating, lighting,
electrical and ventilatingarrangementsto be submitted to the Council for approval
before commencement of the works and for such works to be provided and
maintainedto the satisfaction of the Council.

2 Periodicinspections may be made of the approved heating, lighting, electrical and

ventilation installations.

39
 PART 5
Comparison between the
requirements of Section 20 and
Part B to the Building Regulations
1991 following the introduction of
Part B5
5.01 Introduction
This part of Fire Safety Guide No. 1 compares the requirementsof Section 20 of
the London Building Acts (Amendment) Act 1939 and Part B of The Building
Regulations 1991. AppendixA, which follows, was prepared by the London District
Surveyors' Association (LDSA) and The London Fire & Civil Defence Authority
(LFCDA) in 1992. It formed the basis for discussions with the Department of
Environment (DOE) about which Section 20 requirementsthat had been left out of
Part B should, in fact, be included in future revisions.

In the interim period, the LDSA has recommendedthe continuing enforcementof

the residual Section 20 requirements. It is felt that the number of fires outside of
Londonin large unspnnkleredstorage buildings has vindicated this approach. It is
widely reported that the DOE will take this matter on board in the forthcoming
review of Part B.

5.02 Continuing Control

Anotherreason that the LDSA considered that Section20 should be continued was
that Section 133 of the London Building Act (amendment)Act 1939 provides that
fire safetyand means of escape provisions should be maintainedby the owner of
a building.The Building Regulationscontain no such provision, even though Part
B activelyencourages engineered fire safety solutions which may be based upon
the provision of active systems where maintenance is of vital importance. The
Home Office intended to makeregulations underSection 12 of the Fire precautions
Act 1971, enablinga FireAuthority to have continuing control over fire precautions
required by a Building Control Authority. However, these regulationshave never
been made. It is possible that the Government now considers that the proposed
Fire Precautions (Places of Work) Regulationswill take the place of these, but
again, thesehave not been implemented.

5.03 Recommendations
Whilst recognisingthe need to review this Fire Safety Guide, in view of the
forthcoming consultationon a revised Part B and the implementationof the Fire
Precautions(Places of Work) Regulations,the LDSA considers that this revision
would bestbe deferred until afterthe above are completed.This 1997 reprint
may, therefore, be regardedvery much as a holding measure.

40
 APPENDIX A

COMPARISONOF THE REQUIREMENTSFOR A SECTION20 BUILDING (LONDON

BUILDING ACTS (AMENDMENT)ACT 1939) AND OF THE REQUIREMENTSFROM
I
PART B OF SCHEDULE TO THE BUILDING REGULATIONS1991

SECTION 20 BUILDING REGULATIONS

2.01 FIREALARMS

All section 20 Buildings. Not required unless associated with:-

i) phased evacuation;
ii) automatic smoke control systems.
2.03 EXTERNAL PRIVATE FIRE
HYDRANTS

All Section 20 buildings, required Not required.

where a fire main is more than
40m from a statutory street
hydrant.

2.04/06/06 FIRE MAINS

a) Dry Rising Mains Fire Mains

All section 20 buildings to:- a) Fire mains are required to the

lobbies of all fire fighting shafts.
i) lobbies offire fighting
shafts; b) Wet rising mains are required to
ii) corridors/lobbiesto blocks buildings over 6Dm in height.
of flats adjacent to fire
fighting shafts.

b) Wet Rising Mains Fire Mains shall be designed and

constructed to BS 5306: Part 1 -
Buildings over 60m in height. Sections 2 and 3.

c) Dry Falling Mains

Lobbies of fire fighting shafts to
basements below 9m.

d) Fire mains may be provided in

otherpositions as may be
necessary.

Fire Mains shall be designed and

constructedto BS 5306: Parts I
and 2.

41
 SECTION20 BUILDING REGULATIONS

2.07 AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER

INSTALLATIONS

All Section 20 buildings except :- Sprinklersare required to:-

i) flats and maisonettes; a) Offices, shops, Assembly and

ii) certain open sided car Recreation, Industrial, and
parks. storage/non residential buildings
above 3Dm in height.

b) Assembly and Recreation buildings

for compartmentsize between 2000
and 4000 m2.

C) Industrial buildings:-

i) below 20m in height for a

compartmentsize between
4000 and 7000 m2;

ii) above 2Dm in height for a

compartment size between
2000 and 4000 m2.

d) Storage and othernon-residential

buildings (except car parks for light
vehicles):-

i) below 20m in height for a

compartment size between
4000 and 8000 m3.

ii) above 20m in height for a

compartmentsize between
20000 and 40000 m3.

e) Basementsrequiring mechanical
ventilation for venting of heat and
smoke.

2.08 AUTOMATIC EXTINGUISHING

INSTALLATION (OTHER THAN
SPRINKLERS)

All section 20 buildings. No mention.

2.09 HOSE REELS AND HAND FIRE

APPLIANCES

All section 20 buildings. No mention.

42
 SECTION 20 BUILDING REGULATIONS

2.10 and 2.13

SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
a) Basementsonlyto any building
All section 20 buildings for all except:-
storeys - natural or mechanical.
i) single family dwelling houses;
ii) basementsof not more than 20Gm2
and not more than 3m below
adjacent ground;
iii) strong rooms.

b) Car Parks
2.14 FIRE BRIGADE ACCESS TO
THE EXTERIOROF THE
BUILDING

All section 20 buildings for All buildings

access, working space and
construction of roads etc for a) Buildings fire main - access for
vehicles, a pumping applianceto within 18m
of fire main.
Referenceto LFB - FP Gen 20.
b) Buildings without fire mains. Access
required to a % of the perimeter of
the building depending on floor area
and height (table 19).

c) Access route specificationfor width,

turning circle, height and carrying
capacity (table 20 and diag. 43).

43
 SECTION 20 BUILDING REGULATIONS

2.15 FIRE FIGHTING ACCESS TO

THE INTERIOR OF THE
BUILDING - FIRE FIGHTING
SHAFTS

Provision Provision

a) All buildings with a floor above 20m

a) Buildings controlledby
- or a floor below 1Dm -
height fire fighting shaft, lift and fire main.
fire fighting shaft, lift and fire
main.
b) All buildings above 7.5m with a
-
storey exceeding600 m2 fire
b) Buildings controlled by
cubical extent:- fighting shaftand fire main.

i) over 7.5m - c) All buildings with 2 or more

fire fighting shaft. basements,each exceeding 900 m2
- - fire fighting shaft and fire main.
ii) over 18m
fire fighting shaft, lift and fire -
main. d) Shopping complexes in
accordancewith BS 5588: part 10.
c) Storeys below 9m from
access level -
fire fighting shaft, lift and fire
main.

Number Number

1. forfloor area > 90Dm2 a) Buildings with sprinklers

2. for floor area900-200m2
3. for floor area 2001-3500m2 I for floor area above 20m in height
1 I
extra for every additional 500m2 of less than 900m2.

Every part of a storey to be within 40m 2 for floor area 900m2 - 2000m2.
directdistance or 60m travel distance
to a fire fighting shaft with fire main. I for every additional 1500 m2.
Arrangements to be in accordance b) Buildingswithout sprinklers.
with BS 5588: Part 5. 1 for every 900m2 of floor area
above 20m or 7.5m.

Every part of storey to be within 40m

direct distance or 6Dm travel distance to
firefighting shaft.

Arrangementsto be as diag. 46 and BS

5588: Part 5.

2.16 FIRE CONTROL CENTRE

All section 20 offices, enclosed No mention.

shopping complexes, retail stores,
hotels and hospitals. -

44
 SECTION20 BUILDING REGULATfONS
2.17 DISPLAY OF PLANS

All section 20 buildings for:- No mention

a) basement levels;
b) otherfloor levels where
necessary.

SPECIAL FIRE RISK AREAS

3.01 HEAT PRODUCING Places of special fire risk are defined as:-
APPLIANCESABOVE 220KW
Oil filled transformer and switch gear.
Oil fuel boiler chambers Boiler rooms.
Oil fuel storage Oil or flammable liquid storage.
Other boiler chambers Rooms housing internal combustion
engines.

3.02 FIXED INTERNAL

COMBUSTIONENGINES
ABOVE 44KW

Petrol driver engines

Diesel driverengines

3.03 TRANSFORMERSUBSTATIONS

Oil cooled transformers.

3.04 NITRATE FILM AND

CELLULOID STORAGE

3.05 FLAMMABLE LIQUID

SPRAYINGROOMS

3.06 LOADING BAYS

3.07, 3.08, 3.09

CAR PARKS

Requirementsinclude

Construction
Fire times
Adjoining risks
Ventilation
Electrical and mechanical
ventilation
Communicationwith remainder of
building

45
 Publishedby
LDSA PUBLICATIONS
P0 Box 23
BECKENHAM
KENT BR3 3TL

© Copyright 1997
First Published 1990
Amended and reprinted 1997

ISBN 0 951651897

February 1997

PA'
!LDcaIAuihorky
BUILDING
CONTROL

Printedby TadberryEvedaleLimited, Units 2,3 & 4, 1A Philip Walk, London SE15 3NH