Here’s what matters: fire safety saves lives, full stop. It’s about making sure people and property are protected when things go wrong. If you’re responsible for any kind of building, you need to know the rules—and the rules are changing.

Let’s cut to the chase: 2025 is bringing in new fire safety regulations, and they’re designed to fill gaps, improve protection, and make everyone safer. This is what you should do: get familiar with the changes, understand how they affect you, and take action now to stay ahead.

Mandatory Sprinkler Systems in New Care Homes

Here’s the deal: from 2 March 2025, every new care home in England—no matter its size or height—must have sprinkler systems installed. This isn’t optional; it’s a legal requirement. Read more here.

Why does this matter? Sprinklers save lives. They’re designed to act fast, especially in care homes where residents may need extra help in emergencies. Vulnerable people deserve the best fire protection possible, and this regulation is a step in the right direction.

What you need to do:

• If you’re building a new care home, make sure sprinklers are included in your design from the start. It’s non-negotiable.
• If you’re renovating an older care home, think about retrofitting sprinklers now. While it’s not yet required, it’s a smart move that could save lives—and it’s likely to become a future standard.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Plan for these changes now to avoid costly delays later.

Transition to European Fire Testing Standards (BS EN 13501)

Here’s the update: the UK is moving away from the old BS 476 fire testing system and switching to the European Standard, BS EN 13501. This change kicks off on 2 March 2025, with more to follow. Details here.

What’s changing?

• Reaction to Fire and Roofs: As of March 2025, BS 476 references will disappear from Approved Document B.
• Fire Resistance: By September 2029, BS 476 will be completely phased out. Why does this matter? Aligning with BS EN 13501 ensures fire safety measures meet international standards. It’s about consistency and better protection across the board.

What you need to do:

• Manufacturers: Start updating your products to meet BS EN 13501 classifications.
• Builders and designers: Double-check that the materials you’re using comply with the new standard.

Here’s the good news: there’s plenty of time to adapt. But don’t leave it until the last minute—early compliance avoids stress and keeps projects on track.

Introduction of Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)

New rules are coming to improve fire safety for vulnerable residents in high-rise and high-risk residential buildings. The big change? Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs). These plans are all about making sure people who need extra help in an emergency have a clear, personalised escape strategy.

Why this matters: Not everyone can evacuate easily during a fire. Tailored plans mean those who need assistance aren’t left behind when seconds count.

What you need to do:

• Responsible Persons: Identify residents who need support and work with them to create a PEEP that fits their needs.
• Share the details: Make sure your local Fire and Rescue Service knows about these plans so they can step in effectively when needed.

This is about saving lives—plain and simple. Get organised now to keep everyone in your building safe when it matters most.

Phasing Out of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) Fire Extinguishers

Here’s the bottom line: by 4 July 2025, AFFF fire extinguishers are officially out. They’re being banned due to serious environmental and health concerns tied to PFAS compounds.

Why the change? PFAS chemicals are nicknamed “forever chemicals” for a reason—they stick around in the environment and can cause long-term harm. This ban is about protecting both people and the planet.

What you need to do:

• Replace your extinguishers: Audit your fire safety equipment now and swap out any AFFF extinguishers for eco-friendly alternatives.
• Train your team: Make sure everyone knows how to use the new extinguishers effectively.

Don’t wait until the deadline. Start phasing out AFFF extinguishers today to stay compliant and prepared.

Stay Ahead in 2025

Here’s the takeaway: 2025 is a big year for fire safety, with changes that will impact care homes, testing standards, evacuation plans, and fire extinguishers. Sprinklers are becoming mandatory in new care homes, the UK is aligning with European fire testing standards, PEEPs are being introduced to help vulnerable residents, and AFFF extinguishers are being phased out for good.

This is what you should do: act now. Early compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it’s about saving lives and staying ahead of the curve. Start planning, replacing, and training today to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and make safety your top priority. These changes are here to protect everyone, and your commitment to compliance will make all the difference.