Compliance glossary
& definitions.

A certificate granted by the local Fire Authority that confirms the design of a building (or proposed works) complies with Part B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations.

A certificate that confirms the design of a building (or proposed works) complies with Part M (Access and Use) of the Building Regulations.

The statutory instrument that introduced mandatory processes (like the Assigned Certifier role) for inspecting and certifying compliance with the Building Regulations.

The guidance document that provides practical ways to achieve compliance with Part B (Fire Safety) of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations.

The guidance document that provides practical ways to achieve compliance with Part M (Access and Use) of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations.

Appointed by the Client. Responsible for coordinating health and safety matters during the design phase, preparing the preliminary Safety and Health Plan, and compiling the Safety File.

Appointed by the Client. Responsible for managing and coordinating health and safety on-site during the construction phase and implementing the Safety and Health Plan.

A record of information for the client containing health and safety information for the completed structure, including details on its operation, maintenance, and future modification/demolition.

A written plan detailing how key health and safety risks will be managed throughout the project.

A system of devices installed in a building designed to detect the presence of fire and alert occupants.

The structural provisions for persons to travel safely from any point in a building to a place of safety outside in the event of fire.

The division of a building into smaller, fire-resisting enclosures to limit the spread of fire and smoke.

The minimum time (e.g., 60 minutes) for which a building element maintains its function (integrity, insulation) when exposed to fire.

A part of a building (e.g., a stair enclosure) that is fire-resisting and provides a safe route to an escape route or a place of safety.

A mechanical device installed in a duct or air transfer opening in a fire-resistance-rated barrier to prevent the passage of fire.

Ventilation systems designed to automatically open and remove smoke and heat from a building, aiding in escape and firefighting.

A system of pipes and heads that automatically detects fire and discharges water over the area of fire origin.

The design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood, and used to the greatest extent possible by all people regardless of their age, size, ability, or disability.

The accessible route(s) leading from the site boundary and/or car parking areas to the accessible entrance(s) of a building.

The minimum unobstructed width of a doorway or opening, measured between the door face and the door jamb when the door is fully open. Critical for wheelchair access.

The entrance most commonly used by visitors, which must be fully accessible and clearly marked.

A place of relative safety, usually a protected area in a fire-resisting stairwell or lobby, where people (especially those who cannot use stairs) can await evacuation or rescue.

Textured ground surface indicators used to assist visually impaired people, placed at hazard warnings or guidance along a route.