Fire safety in residential buildings has undergone a significant transformation with the release of BS 9991:2024. This revised British Standard strengthens requirements for evacuation lifts, ensuring safer egress for residents during emergencies. Lessons learned from past incidents, such as Grenfell Tower, alongside advancements in fire safety technology, have shaped these critical updates.
Evacuation Lifts: A Mandatory Feature
- All residential buildings with passenger lifts must ensure they can function as evacuation lifts.
- At least one evacuation lift per escape stairway is required.
- If escape stairs are separate, lifts should be placed at each stair rather than relying on a single central lift.
Integration with Firefighting Lifts
- In “stay put” buildings, firefighting lifts may also serve as evacuation lifts.
- In full evacuation strategies, firefighting and evacuation lifts must remain separate.
- In tall buildings (over 50 meters), all lifts must function as firefighting lifts with evacuation capabilities.
Lift Specifications
- Compliance with EN 81-20 is required.
- Minimum lift car dimensions: 1400mm deep x 1100mm wide, with 900mm-wide doors.
- Fire-rated landing doors are necessary, but fully smoke-sealed doors may not always be feasible.
Power Supply Requirements
- Primary and secondary power supplies are required for evacuation lifts, communication systems, and lobby lighting.
- Buildings <18m: A protected secondary route from the main electrical supply can be used.
- Buildings >18m: Must have a generator, an independent supply from a separate substation, or a UPS system.
Protected Lift Shafts & Waiting Areas
- Evacuation lift shafts and lobbies must be protected against smoke and fire.
- Step-free access required to evacuation waiting areas (minimum size: 1500mm x 2100mm).
- Ventilation systems must minimize smoke exposure.
Future Regulations & Compliance
- BS 9991:2024 aligns with the upcoming BS EN 81-76, which will introduce advanced evacuation solutions.
- Compliance is mandatory for new residential developments.
- Monthly checks and maintenance of evacuation lifts must follow Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022.
In Summary
BS 9991:2024 introduces major changes to the use, design, and requirement of evacuation lifts in residential buildings. With additional updates expected from BS EN 81-76 in 2025, those involved in fire safety should prepare for more robust design, installation, and maintenance practices.
At Ardent Lift Consultancy, we’re committed to helping clients navigate these new requirements. Contact us for support with compliance, design integration, or training related to evacuation lifts under the latest standards.
