Research and analysis

Fire safety: Construction technologies, design and usage

Research into the suitability of fire safety guidance for modern building uses, designs and materials.

Applies to England

Documents

Fire safety: Construction technologies, design and usage (volume 1 of 2)

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Fire safety: Construction technologies, design and usage (volume 2 of 2)

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Details

The research assesses the suitability of guidance in Approved Document B (fire safety) and Building Regulations 2010 for modern materials, systems, ways of building, design and use. 

Researchers evaluated the implications of an evolving society, design, construction and policy trends and identified any gaps in existing guidance. 

The researchers considered trends including more:  

  • tall buildings and more complex building footprints 
  • modern methods of construction, such as prefabrication 
  • alternative materials, including for sustainability  
  • alternative energy systems and batteries 

They used these findings to provide evidence to inform future policy and guidance updates.

Background

The government commissioned the research as part of the technical review of Approved Document B (fire safety).  

BRE Global carried out the work, and the findings and recommendations do not represent government policy.

Updates to this page

Published 22 December 2025

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