UK Fire Safety Changes in 2025: Is Your Business Ready?

16 May 2025

personal emergency evacuation plan

From 2025, the UK is introducing several important updates to fire safety legislation. These changes affect a wide range of sectors, including care homes, office buildings and commercial premises. The updates aim to improve safety, support vulnerable individuals and align national standards with European fire testing methods.

Key changes include:

  • Mandatory sprinkler systems in all new care homes

  • The ban on AFFF fire extinguishers from 4th July 2025

  • The shift from BS 476 to BS EN 13501 fire classification standards

  • Stronger fire door regulations

Understanding these developments and acting on them now can help ensure your business remains compliant and, more importantly, safe.

Sprinkler Systems Now Required in New Care Homes

As of 2nd March 2025, all new care homes in England are legally required to install sprinkler systems. This regulation is designed to improve safety for vulnerable residents by suppressing fires before they spread, allowing for safer evacuation.

If you are planning or developing a care facility:

  • Incorporate a compliant fire alarm system in the care home

  • Ensure sprinkler systems are installed as standard

  • Provide staff with fire safety training that includes evacuation procedures and system awareness

While this applies to new buildings, existing care homes are encouraged to consider retrofitting sprinkler systems to enhance fire protection.

AFFF Fire Extinguishers to Be Banned by July 2025

One of the most urgent changes involves AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) fire extinguishers, which will be prohibited in the UK from 4th July 2025. These extinguishers, commonly used for liquid fires, contain PFAS chemicals that are harmful to the environment and water systems.

What businesses should do:

  • Conduct an audit of current fire extinguishers

  • Replace AFFF units with compliant alternatives (e.g. CO₂ or water mist extinguishers)

  • Arrange for safe, environmentally responsible disposal

The Role of PEEPs in Fire Safety Planning

A Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) is a personalised strategy designed to assist individuals who may need extra help evacuating a building during an emergency - such as those with mobility, sensory or cognitive impairments.

A properly implemented PEEP evacuation plan ensures that no one is left behind during a fire evacuation.

Steps to implement effective PEEPs:

  • Identify staff, residents or visitors who require assistance

  • Use a clear personal emergency evacuation plan template to document procedures

  • Train designated personnel to assist in executing these plans

  • Review plans regularly and update them as needed

Including PEEPs as part of your health and safety strategy is not only best practice - it’s an essential component of a responsible fire evacuation plan.

Transition to BS EN 13501 Fire Testing Standards

The UK is now transitioning from the longstanding BS 476 standard to the European-aligned BS EN 13501 classification system. This shift is designed to provide a more comprehensive understanding of how building materials perform in fire conditions.

BS EN 13501-1, in particular, assesses factors such as flame spread, smoke production, and heat release.

If your business is involved in construction or renovation:

  • Confirm that all materials meet BS EN 13501 requirements

  • Ensure documentation reflects the updated standards

  • Speak with suppliers and contractors to verify compliance

Updated Fire Door Regulations: Maintenance and Inspection

Fire doors are critical for compartmentalising fires and giving occupants time to evacuate. In 2025, fire door maintenance regulations have been strengthened to ensure fire doors remain effective and reliable.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Adhering to the appropriate fire door inspection frequency (typically quarterly in high-risk buildings like care homes)

  • Ensuring all maintenance meets regulatory fire door maintenance requirements

  • Keeping accurate records of inspections, repairs, and servicing

Neglecting these tasks can result in serious safety risks as well as legal non-compliance.

Fire Safety Checklist for Businesses

To remain compliant with the 2025 fire safety changes, businesses should act early and take a proactive approach:

  • Remove AFFF fire extinguishers before the July 2025 deadline

  • Install sprinklers in all new care home developments

  • Develop and maintain PEEP evacuation plans for those who need assistance

  • Verify construction materials meet BS EN 13501-1 standards

  • Review and update your fire door maintenance procedures

By addressing these areas, your business can meet legal requirements and better protect staff, residents, and visitors in the event of a fire.

For official guidance, consult:


A-Plus Security are a BAFE company, who provide a range of fire safety systems and maintenance services to help you establish a robust and future-ready position for your premises.

Contact us here or call us on 01702 293157 for a consultation to review and enhance your current safety systems.

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