What This Requirement Covers
Retail premises range from small independent shops to large department stores and shopping centres. Approved Document B Volume 2 classifies them as Purpose Group 5 (Shop and commercial). The fire safety requirements depend on the floor area, number of storeys, and whether the public has access to upper or lower floors.
Key Requirements
Means of Escape
- Maximum travel distance: 18 metres (one direction) or 45 metres (two directions)
- Where the public has access to upper floors, at least two protected stairways must be provided if the floor area exceeds 280 m²
- Exit widths are calculated based on occupant capacity, using an occupant density of 2 m² per person for retail floor space (ground floor) or 0.5 m² per person for concourse areas
Compartmentation
- Maximum compartment floor area:
- Stockrooms and storage areas must be separated from the sales floor by fire-resisting construction
Fire Detection
- Category M (manual call points) is the minimum for simple retail premises
- Larger stores and those with storage areas may require Category L3 or L2 detection
- Shopping centres require a comprehensive fire alarm system coordinated across all units
Sprinklers
- Required in retail premises with a floor area exceeding 2000 m² in a single compartment (or where compartment size relaxations are sought)
Practical Compliance Tips
- Carry out a fire risk assessment before opening to the public
- Keep escape routes clear of stock, display stands, and seasonal displays
- Ensure all staff know the fire evacuation procedure and the location of fire-fighting equipment
- Train staff in the use of extinguishers and fire blankets
- Do not obstruct fire exits with deliveries or waste bins
- Review the fire risk assessment after any changes to the store layout
- Shopping centre tenants must comply with the centre's fire safety management plan