Tall Timber Buildings in the UK: Fire Safety Design Approaches

Mass timber high-rise is becoming reality. We examine the fire safety design strategies for tall timber buildings in the UK context.. Tall Timber and Fire Safety Regulatory Position Post 18m combustible material ban does not apply to structural timber (exemption in SI 2018/1230) However, BSR and building control take cautious approach Performance based fire engineering essential Design Strategies 1. Full encapsulation — timber hidden behind non combustible linings 2. Partial exposure — limited timber exposure with enhanced protection 3. Charring design — sacrifice layer calculated per EN 1995 1 2 4. Hybrid construction — concrete core with timber frame Key Considerations Charring rate: typically 0.65mm/min for CLT Delamination risk — adhesive failure exposing fresh timber Residual smouldering after fire — extended overhaul requirements Sprinkler protection mandatory Enhanced fire detection throughout For timber building fire engineering, contact us.