Northern Ireland Proposes Mandatory Sprinklers in New Apartment Buildings Over 11m Tall
In a decisive step towards heightened fire safety, Stormont's Department of Finance has proposed a regulation that would mandate the installation of sprinkler systems in all newly constructed apartment buildings over 11m tall across Northern Ireland. This move could redefine the standards of fire protection for the residents and the fire and rescue service personnel in the region.
This proposal is part of a broader consultation aimed at reviewing and updating building regulations. If enacted, it would bring Northern Ireland into harmony with the rest of the UK, where stricter rules on fire safety were put into place in the aftermath of the tragic Grenfell Tower disaster.
An 11m-tall building would usually equate to a structure of around five storeys. Significantly, the proposal mandates fire sprinkler installation only in new buildings. As of now, it does not extend to the retrofitting of existing buildings.
Alongside sprinkler systems, other fire safety aspects are also being evaluated. This includes the provision of comprehensive fire safety information during the completion stage of construction, and prior to the handover of a building for occupation.
This proposed policy adjustment aligns Northern Ireland with England and Scotland, where regulations requiring sprinklers were introduced in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Furthermore, it mirrors the proactive stance of Wales, which has had stringent regulations in place since 2016.
In a statement, the Department of Finance underscored the multiple benefits of sprinkler systems. They observed, "Sprinklers can provide numerous advantages, including personal protection for individuals, limiting fire spread, safeguarding property and fittings, and ensuring secure means of escape. These changes will significantly augment life safety measures for residents, as well as fire and rescue service personnel during a response."
The consultation period for these proposed changes will remain open until September 25, giving stakeholders a chance to voice their opinions and suggestions.
