FASTSIGNS UK exposes fire safety shortfalls

Jul 8, 2025 | Industry News

Almost one-third of high-rise buildings across the UK are falling short of new fire safety regulations, new research suggests.

According to the work done by FASTSIGNS UK, fire and rescue services across England are waiting on 32% of building plans and 31% of external wall plans from these buildings.

The plans are required under the UK Governments updated fire safety regulations, which came into force on January 23 2023.

This change made it a legal requirement for responsible persons of high-rise residential buildings, of seven storeys or more, to provide local fire and rescue services with appropriate safety information, including up-to-date building and external wall plans.

The regulation was implemented following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in July 2017, where emergency response teams on-site reported challenges navigating the complex residential building, due to a lack of clear directional signage.

FASTSIGNS UK’s research also analysed inconsistencies among fire services across the UK, in conducting audits and inspections of high-rise residential buildings.

While 50 per cent of respondents confirmed audits are carried out, the research reveals a lack of clarity regarding the frequency of the inspections.

Commenting on the results of the research, John Davies, managing director of FASTSIGNS UK, said: “In the case of fire safety, certified and easily visible signage is essential for guiding both residents and emergency response teams through high-rise buildings when an incident occurs, helping to avoid confusion and save lives.

“Our latest research shows that while progress is being made, there are still some challenges to overcome.”

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