Proposed fire safety changes could limit timber use in taller buildings

A government consultation on fire safety guidance could restrict the use of timber in buildings over 11 metres in height.

The consultation, opened on 25 March by the Health and Safety Executive, proposes updates to Approved Document B (ADB), which provides guidance for meeting fire safety requirements under the Building Regulations 2010 in England.

The proposed changes state that buildings taller than 11m should not use materials with a fire classification below A2-s3, d2 as load-bearing elements or in external construction. Most timber products do not meet this classification, as they are typically rated lower for combustibility, although some can achieve higher ratings through treatment.

If implemented, the guidance would represent a change from current regulations introduced after the Grenfell Tower fire, which apply restrictions primarily to external wall materials in residential buildings over 18m.

Although ADB is guidance rather than mandatory regulation, it is commonly used in planning and regulatory approval processes.

The consultation also includes a proposal requiring buildings over 18m to incorporate evacuation lifts designed to accommodate a wheelchair user and an accompanying person.

The consultation period is open until 17 June