ABSTRACT
As a consequence of the review of the Building Regulations 1985 undertaken by the Department of the Environment, Approved Document B has changed significantly in a number of key areas, reflecting advances in technology and building form. These areas include the adoption of guidance rather than mandatory rules for means of escape design, a new requirement covering fire service access, and a lessening of standards concerning compartmentation and periods of fire resistance where the benefits of sprinkler systems are further recognized.
