The UK Government has launched a new consultation reviewing Approved Document B (Fire Safety), marking an important step in the ongoing reform of fire safety guidance across England.
This review forms part of a wider commitment to improving building safety standards following the recommendations of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.
What Is Being Reviewed?
Approved Document B (ADB) is the primary guidance used to demonstrate compliance with fire safety requirements under the Building Regulations.
The latest consultation, launched in March 2026, proposes a series of updates aimed at improving clarity, consistency, and overall fire safety performance in buildings.
Key Proposed Changes
- Clarifications and technical updates to existing guidance
- Improved guidance for existing buildings, particularly for refurbishment and alteration works
- Revisions to external wall systems and balconies, including ongoing review of combustible material restrictions
- Introduction of thresholds for combustible structural elements, where standard guidance may not apply
- Recommendation for evacuation lifts in residential buildings above 18 metres
- Updated terminology, replacing “sheltered housing” with “specialised housing”
- New and updated guidance for roof systems, including solar PV installations
- Increased fire resistance requirements for open-sided car parks
Why This Matters
This consultation is part of a continuous review process led by the Building Safety Regulator to ensure fire safety guidance evolves alongside modern construction methods and risks.
It aims to:
- Strengthen fire safety standards
- Improve clarity for designers, contractors, and duty holders
- Reduce ambiguity in compliance requirements
What Happens Next?
The consultation is open for feedback until July 2026.
Following this, the Government will:
- Review industry responses
- Develop updated guidance
- Publish amendments to Approved Document B
This phased approach allows time for the industry to adapt while maintaining progress toward safer building design.
What This Means for Fire Door Compliance
While this review focuses on broader fire safety guidance, it reinforces the importance of:
- Correct fire door specification
- Third-party certification
- Compliance with current Approved Document B requirements
- Proper installation in line with recognised standards
As regulations continue to evolve, ensuring that fire doors are properly specified, tested, and installed remains critical to overall building safety.
Read More
For full details on the consultation and proposed changes, visit: GOV.UK | Review of Approved Document B