The British Standards Institution (BSI) recently revised BS 9999:2017, fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings – Code of practice.

This building standard describes how to include fire protection in architectural design, and includes all measures that must be considered in both new build and existing buildings.

The fire safety standard has been revised to include new standards that weren’t available when it was published in 2008.

The primary updates that have been introduced in the revision of the document include:


New flowchart that outlines the sequential steps in the architectural design process

Updated recommendations for smoke and heat control

Revised clause on fire safety management with references to PAS 7

Addition of watermist fire suppression systems

Updated recommendations for fire safety in ductwork

Fire safety for mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning systems

Further guidance on use of voice alarms

Expansion of fire growth rates table to provide more information

Details about fire curtain barrier assemblies

Standards specific to shopping complexes

The code of practice, which is for commercial buildings, is a useful document for architects and building owners. It can be downloaded here.

Building owners are responsible for adhering to fire safety regulations, yet the codes of practice are somewhat complex and include detailed instructions on design, installation, and maintenance of fire safety systems. That’s why we recommend working with a fire safety assessor in order to ensure fire protection systems, like fire doors, are properly fitted and can effectively protect inhabitants in the event of a fire.

Contact Norseal to discuss your passive fire protection requirement.