What is the Law on Fire Sprinklers in Care Homes?

Statistics from the Fire Protection Association found that 485 fire incidents were found in care homes in 2023/24. These sorts of fire incidents can leave people in devastating circumstances. And as care home residents are mostly elderly, vulnerable people, fire evacuations can easily become complicated events.

Employers must ensure their care home facilities are up to date with all fire prevention methods and legislation. This includes the new regulations on fire sprinkler systems, as well as evacuation plans.

Any form of negligence could lead to serious consequences for your business. Employers may face legal breaches, business closure, and even fatalities. For further advice, contact one of our expert H&S advisors free of charge today. 

In this guide, we’ll look at what the new law on fire sprinklers covers, who they apply to. and how to ensure your care home business complies with the legal amendment.

Why are fire sprinklers in care homes crucial?

Fire sprinklers have been proven to save lives by providing an immediate response to fires. They particularly help in areas where vulnerable people require additional assistance during fire evacuations.

That’s why the government aims to pass regulations to enhance fire protection in care homes. The announcement was made by MP Rushanara Ali, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Building Safety, on 2 September 2024.

The new regulations apply to all new care homes; they’re also not restricted by size or height. Not only do the new regulations highlight the importance of fire prevention, but they also aim to improve assistance during fire evacuations.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) have also shared their support for the legal amendments. They’ve long advocated for stronger sprinkler requirements in care homes. It was part of their Automatic Water Suppression Systems (AWSS) policy statement presented in May 2024.

What is the law on fire sprinklers in care homes?

As of March 2025, all new care homes are legally required to have sprinkler systems in place. The amendment applies to Approved Document B which offers guidance on Building Regulations. This specifically relates to fire safety in England.

Does the new law apply to care homes with existing building projects?

The new sprinkler legislation only applies to new care homes and those with existing building projects. Under the new guidance, care home providers and developers are given a six-month transition period. It gives them time to show proper compliance before the 2025 deadline comes into play.

The transition period doesn’t apply to already existing care homes. Only those who undertake major refurbishment works will need to comply with Approved Document B.

Many existing care homes already have sufficient sprinkler systems and evacuation plans in place. The passing of the new regulations will provide better certainty for those businesses who have yet to adopt the changeover.

What is the law on evacuation plans in high rise buildings?

During government consultations on fire safety regulations, the Home Office are set to introduce ‘Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs).’ These are specifically designed for disabled and vulnerable residents in high-rise and higher-risk residential buildings. Residential PEEPs:

• Cover specific actions that vulnerable or disabled residents should take in the event of a fire.
• Provide them with a tailored risk assessment that outlines appropriate equipment and adjustments for fire safety and evacuation.

Developers will also need to install evacuation alert systems, known as ‘sounders’. This applies to high-rise residential buildings that are over 18m tall.  Further considerations relating to existing buildings will be added to the Phase 2 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Get expert advice on managing fire sprinklers in care homes with Peninsula

The passing of the new sprinkler regulations will address longstanding concerns about fire safety in care homes. Employers need to show proper compliance to the new regulations – protecting vulnerable residents and staff alike.

Peninsula offers expert advice on managing fire sprinklers in care homes. Our 24/7 H&S advice is available 365 days a year. Want to find out more? Book a free chat with one of our H&S consultants. For further information, call 0800 051 3685.

Sources

New care home fire statistics released | Fire Protection Association

NFCC welcomes new provision for sprinklers in all new care homes | National Fire Chiefs Council

Approved Documents | GOV

Phase 2 report | Grenfell Tower Inquiry