Building Regulations: Technical Standards

Introduction

1. The intention of this Part is to ensure that combustion appliance installations, liquefied petroleum gas tanks and fuel oil storage tanks are properly constructed and safely installed.

2. The requirements do not apply to liquefied petroleum gas storage tanks with a capacity not more than 150 litres water equivalent as these have to satisfy the Health and Safety Executive requirements. Nor do they apply to oil storage containers less than 90 litres.

3. Measures must be taken to ensure that -

a. combustion appliance installations are safe and are of an acceptable standard;

b. the installation does not create a fire risk;

c. sufficient air for combustion and appliance cooling where necessary, is available;

d. the products of combustion are conveyed safely to the outside air; and

e. chimneys, flue-pipes and hearths are constructed of materials suitable for their purpose.

4. For large combustion appliance installations generalised standards are given. Such installations will be dealt with by specialists, usually with reference to British Standards or other recognised codes, to meet Regulation 14.

5. For small combustion appliance installations the standards cover in detail all the areas of concern listed in paragraph 3. However, the requirements are intended to reduce risk and do not attempt to cover such matters as the efficient functioning of flues, which may depend on pressure zones peculiar to a location and building. The appropriate British Standard or other recognised code may have to be consulted.

6. The measures included in this Part are intended to address concerns about the risk from flue gases, that may contain carbon monoxide, escaping into the building. As buildings become more airtight and there is less fortuitous or adventitious ventilation, care should be taken to ensure there is sufficient air for combustion, the flue is functioning properly and there is no conflict with the operation of any air extract fan(s).

7. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations, enforced by the Health and Safety Executive, apply to all gas installations covered by this Part. Part F includes requirements with regard to such installations, but avoids duplication of information contained in the HSE regulations.

8. There are other requirements that will have to be taken into account in certain cases. Part D (Structural Fire Precautions) for example, has requirements for large combustion appliance installations, other than kitchen appliances, to be located in a place of special fire risk. Part K (Ventilation of buildings) has requirements relating to the provision of air for human occupation. These requirements are in addition to, and must be kept separate from, any air supply required by this Part. Part K also has requirements relating to a flue in an open-flued combustion appliance being used as a passive stack ventilation system.

Regulations 14 & 15