Hochiki on Redefining Escape - a Webinar with IFSJ

England’s decision to mandate second staircases in all new residential buildings over 18 metres represents one of the most significant shifts in high rise fire safety design in a generation. More than a technical update to Approved Document B, it signals a fundamental change in how tall residential buildings are designed, occupied and managed.

The new mandate requiring a second staircase in new residential buildings over 18 meters (roughly 6 storeys) applies to England only, with changes to Approved Document B expected to take effect from 30 September 2026. While this brings England's regulations into line with existing standards in Scotland, it does not, however, currently apply to the whole of the UK.

Hochiki Europe's Martin Green, Commercial Training & Support Manager, and Mick Hall, Regional Sales Manager, discuss how evacuation planning, system coordination and building management may need to adapt in multi stair buildings.