The guide has been developed to support structural engineers in the demonstration of compliance with Parts A and B of the Building Regulations in England and Wales in relation to fire safety of a building structure. It does this by:
- Outlining the methods available to demonstrate compliance
- Providing a framework to support designers in their selection of appropriate methods to demonstrate compliance
- Defining the role of the structural engineer regarding the performance of the structure
- Laying down criteria for when a fire engineer and/or ‘structural fire engineer’ are recommended due to the nature of the structure
- Advising on how the structural engineer and other parties should interact
Although the guide has been developed for the regulatory framework in England and Wales, the principles may also be relevant in other jurisdictions.
The guide is primarily aimed at structural engineers, but is also relevant to the wider building design team, including architects, fire engineers, principal designers, contractors and building control authorities.
Given the complex nature of modern construction projects, with multiple stakeholders and overlapping responsibilities, the guide may also be relevant to clients, regulators and project managers who need clarity on roles, responsibilities and competencies in fire safety design.