Government approves staircase call in win for fire safety standards

The Government has confirmed that they will adopt an 18-metre height threshold for second staircases in all new residential buildings.

In a huge win for RIBA’s cross-sector campaign on this issue, the Government noted that the new fire safety measure comes in response to expert bodies’ united calls.

Since March, a RIBA-led coalition spanning the built environment, fire safety and disability rights groups have been strongly advocating an 18-metre threshold. RIBA and its Expert Advisory Group have been calling for second staircases in new residential buildings for a long time.

RIBA President Simon Allford said: “This is a significant moment. Over six years on from the Grenfell Tower tragedy, it is hugely positive and reassuring to see the Government listening to the united call of experts on fire safety, bringing greater coherence and certainty for industry.

“Mandating second staircases in new homes over 18 metres is a vital step towards a safer built environment for all. We are pleased to have played our part in this.”

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has also welcomed the news from Michael Gove MP following a comprehensive campaign.

Eddie Tuttle, Director of Policy, External Affairs and Research at CIOB, said: “The safety of residents and emergency services workers is paramount and can never be understated.

“We have always believed the proposal to mandate secondary staircases for buildings over 18 metres tall to be the best solution as it provides a more comprehensive strategy in ensuring all high-risk buildings have more than one means of a safe entrance and exit.

“Not only does it make exiting buildings in the event of an emergency easier, but it also allows emergency workers to avoid interruption.”