Understanding Passive Fire Protection in New Builds and Existing Buildings

Whether constructing a new building or upgrading an existing structure, passive fire protection is a crucial element of a building's fire safety system.

By preventing the spread of fire and smoke, these systems safeguard lives, protect property and ensure compliance with fire safety legislation. At FireSealsDirect, we understand the importance of integrating proven, certified products, whether at the design stage or during remedial works.

New Build Fire Safety: Integrating Passive Fire Protection from the Start

A new build project involves designing and constructing a completely new structure, where passive fire protection is incorporated from the outset.

Architects, engineers and contractors must collaborate closely throughout the project, which facilitates smooth cross-party communication, ensuring that every stage of the construction process aligns with safety and compliance objectives. Key considerations include:

• Compartmentation

Design and install fire-resisting walls, floors and fire doors to contain fire and smoke within defined areas.

• Escape routes

Carefully plan the location of protected stairwells and exits to enable safe evacuation in an emergency.

• Fire stopping measures

Install cavity barriers and seal service penetrations to prevent the spread of flames and smoke.

By integrating these measures at the design stage and using fully tested, compliant materials, new builds can achieve effective fire safety systems that are compliant with fire safety legislations.

Visit our blog for more information on fire safety in construction.

Retrofit Fire Protection: Upgrading Existing Buildings

Retrofit projects focus on reinstating or upgrading systems within existing buildings to restore compliance and enhance safety.

Over time, modifications and new service installations, such as electrical wiring, plumbing or data cabling, can compromise compartmentation. If penetrations aren’t properly sealed, fire and smoke can spread rapidly between areas.

A detailed fire risk assessment will identify areas requiring action. Each building is unique, and effective remedial work requires tested solutions tailored to the building’s requirements.

Common retrofit work includes:

• Sealing wall and floor penetrations with intumescent products or fire stopping systems such as fire batts and intumescent sealant.
• Upgrading or replacing fire doors and hardware to maintain certification.
• Repairing or reinstating compartmentation to restore fire resistance.

How to Retrofit Fire Doors

Fire doors are critical in maintaining compartmentation. Over time, general wear can reduce their effectiveness. Common issues include:

• Excessive gaps around the door
• Missing or damaged intumescent strips
• Incompatible or poorly fitted ironmongery

When upgrading a fire door, every component must be tested as part of a complete doorset system to maintain certification. For guidance, consult the door manufacturer or a qualified fire door inspector.

Download our fire door inspection checklist to identify doors that require repairs or replacements.

When retrofitting fire doors in historic buildings, this comes with additional challenges, as careful planning is needed to preserve original features while maintaining fire safety. For more guidance, visit our guide on how to retrofit fire doors in older buildings.

What are the Fire Safety Regulations for New and Existing Buildings?

Fire safety regulations are a crucial part of building design, construction and ongoing management. Whether you’re working on a new build or carrying out improvements to an existing property, understanding and complying with current fire safety legislation is essential to ensure buildings meet legal standards to protect lives, property, and avoid legal consequences.

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 sets out the general duties for fire safety in non-domestic buildings in England and Wales. It places responsibility on the “responsible person” to:

• Conduct regular fire risk assessments.
• Implement and maintain appropriate fire precautions, including emergency evacuation planning.
• Ensure all building occupants are prepared for emergencies by providing regular fire safety training and fire drills.

For more guidance, see our guide to the Regulatory Reform Order.

Approved Document B (Building Regulations)

Approved Document B is part of the Building Regulations covering fire safety. It is split into two volumes: Volume 1, which applies to domestic dwellings, and Volume 2, which applies to non-domestic dwellings.

Both volumes provide guidance on the materials, fire-resisting construction, escape routes, fire stopping and fire detection systems to ensure the safety of occupants. Compliance with Approved Document B ensures that buildings meet the current standards for fire safety and align with the Fire Safety Order.

How we can help

At FireSealsDirect, we specialise in supplying certified passive fire protection solutions trusted by fire safety professionals across the UK.

Whether you’re constructing a new building or upgrading an existing one, our technical team is here to support you with expert advice and product recommendations.

Speak with one of our specialists today via live chat, call 02920 857 959, or email us at [email protected].

You can also explore our Advice Centre, which offers a wide range of guides and useful information on fire safety, fire legislation and more.