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FIRE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS RELATING TO HIGH RAISE BUILDINGS EXCEEDING 7.5 METERS IN HEIGHT FROM GROUND LEVEL

Special Regulations need to be followed for Building Control Compliance

 DPL have put together this article to explain the need to comply with high-rise domestic dwellings exceeding 7500mm from ground level when converting your Attic into a Loft Conversion.

Loft Conversions that exceed 7500mm from ground level require special FIRE PRECAUTIONS to be implemented

When a loft is converted in a building development where the new added level exceeds more than 7.5 meters from ground level, fire safety requirements are a lot stricter due to the increased risk associated with escape from the building and fire spread. Building Control will review all registered designs and approve only if they feel that all the fire safety areas are addressed. High-rise buildings are reviewed differently than standard domestic properties with converted lofts.

"DISCOUNT PLANS Explain the fundamentals of what areas need to be addressed to comply with building control requirements"

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Key Fire Safety Requirements for Loft Conversions Over 7.5m from ground level.
 

1. Protected Escape Route

   - The stairwell and corridors leading from the loft down to the final exit must all be enclosed in fire-resistant materials (typically 30 minutes of fire resistance). 
   - This includes walls, ceilings, and doors (e.g., FD30 fire doors). 
   - No open-plan layouts are allowed unless alternative fire escape measures are in place.

2. Automatic Fire Detection System
   - Install a mains-powered, interlinked smoke alarm system throughout the property:
   - Smoke alarms on every floor (including the loft).
   - Heat alarms in the kitchen. 
   - Ensure that alarms comply with BS 5839-6 standards. 

Example of a Loft Conversion exceeding 7.5m in Height - Property Located in West Hampstead

3. Alternative Means of Escape
   - If the main escape route becomes blocked, windows in the loft must comply with escape window               regulations:
     - Opening size: At least 0.33m².
     - Height: The bottom of the window must be no higher than 1.1m from the floor. 

4. Fire-Safe Roof Access
   - For buildings over 7.5m, the roof must allow firefighter access, ensuring sufficient openings for           ventilation and rescue. 

5. Staircase Requirements
   - Any new staircase to the loft must lead to the protected escape route without obstruction. 
   - If a spiral staircase is used, additional fire safety measures, such as sprinklers, may be required.

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Section through building showing the overall internal height levels exceeding 7.5m from external ground level
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6. Fire Resistance of Floors
   - The floor between the loft and the lower levels must provide at least 60 minutes of fire resistance.

7. Fire Sprinkler System (Optional but Recommended)
   - In tall buildings (above 7.5m), installing a sprinkler system may further

enhance fire safety and may allow some design flexibility.

Regulatory Compliance
These requirements are guided by Approved Document B of UK Building Regulations. A fire safety professional or building control inspector should assess your project to ensure full compliance.

Let me know if you need help refining plans for loft conversions with fire safety in mind!

We hope you found this helpful article for your proposed loft conversion proposal, join1000s of other satisfied customers whom we have helped design to their tailored layout. Regards John. Domenech 

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