What’s New? Approved Document B – 2026 Amendments
Understand the key changes to Approved Document B taking effect from 30 September 2026, including new guidance on common stairs in taller blocks of flats and provisions supporting evacuation lifts.
Learning Style
Time Limit
Duration
Level
Free
The 2026 amendments introduce some important changes to how means of escape is approached in taller blocks of flats, particularly through the new guidance on common stairs and evacuation lifts. This course gives you an accessible overview of what’s changing, when the new guidance applies – and what it could mean for fire safety practice.
Course aims
The purpose and role of the Approved Documents
The key changes introduced by the 2026 amendments
The new approach to common stairs in taller blocks of flats
The new provisions supporting evacuation lifts
How the changes affect the wider means of escape strategy
When the amended guidance applies and the transitional arrangements
Who it’s for
This course is designed for anyone who wants to understand the forthcoming changes to Approved Document B.
Fire risk assessors
Fire safety consultants and advisors
Fire safety inspectors
Members of the fire and rescue service
Health and safety professionals
Building control professionals
Your learning journey
Welcome
Understand what the Approved Documents are, where Approved Document B sits within the Building Regulations framework and why the guidance is changing.
More Than One Common Stair in Taller Blocks of Flats
Explore the new recommendation for more than one common stair in blocks of flats with a top storey 18m or more in height, including associated changes to stair design.
Evacuation Lifts
Look at the new building design provisions supporting the use of evacuation lifts, including evacuation shafts, protected lobbies and the wider principles behind their provision.
How Do the Changes Work Together?
Consider how common stairs, evacuation lifts and associated fire protection measures form part of the wider means of escape strategy.
When Do the Changes Apply?
Understand the 30 September 2026 implementation date and the transitional arrangements for building work already planned or underway.
Summary
A short summary of everything covered.
6 learning blocks
Your Certificate
How it's delivered and assessed
Online and self-directed
This course is fully online and self-directed, with instant access to the learning materials. You can navigate through the course content in your learning portal online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I receive tutor support?
Yes. Diploma learners have dedicated tutor support seven days a week. On our shorter courses, learner support is available to answer your questions, and all online learners can use our community forums.
Can I study online at my own pace?
Yes. Our online courses are self-directed distance learning, studied in our learning portal whenever suits you. Each course has a time limit, from 3 months for our shortest courses to 12 months for the Diploma.
What payment options are there? Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. You can pay in full, spread the cost with one of our payment plans, or use a third-party provider. Every option costs the same, and you choose at checkout.
Do you offer training for organisations?
Yes. Whether you need fire wardens trained, managers confident with health and safety, or staff who know what to look for on a fire door, we can help you train your team. Courses are available online, and SafeManagers™ is delivered in the classroom by our Training Partners.
What is BeyondTheory™?
BeyondTheory™ is a practical learning experience designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world experience. You’ll follow experienced professionals as they assess real buildings, gaining insight into their observations, thought processes and professional judgements.
Who is National Safety Academy?
National Safety Academy (NSA) is a UK provider of fire safety and health and safety courses and qualifications. Our assessments are built on real workplace scenarios, and we keep our courses affordable and flexible, with online courses you study at your own pace and classroom courses delivered by approved Training Partners.
Are NSA’s courses accredited or recognised?
Several of our courses carry external recognition. Our Diploma in Fire Risk Assessment is an SCQF Level 10 qualification developed in line with BS 8674:2025, and our Fire Door Inspection course is recognised by the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) as a Recognised Training Course. Each course page sets out the recognition and CPD hours that apply.
Can we train a whole team?
Yes. You can train a whole team with us, whether that’s online courses for your staff or SafeManagers™ delivered by an approved Training Partner. Contact us to talk through the options for your organisation.
