Despite industry calls, the UK Government confirmed on December 17, 2025, no revision to the Building Safety Act 2022's Higher-Risk Building (HRB) definition. Care homes and hospitals remain excluded, posing unique fire safety challenges.. The Unchanged Landscape of Higher Risk Building Definitions On December 17, 2025, the UK Government announced that it would not be revising the definition of 'Higher Risk Building' (HRB) under the Building Safety Act 2022. This decision means that existing care homes and hospitals, despite their critical importance and the vulnerability of their occupants, remain outside the heightened regulatory scrutiny applied to HRBs. This creates a distinct challenge for fire safety, even though these essential facilities are covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Addressing Unique Fire Safety Vulnerabilities The exclusion of care homes and hospitals from the HRB definition means that the specific, enhanced oversight mechanisms of the BSA 2022 will not directly apply to them. However, their inherent fire risks β stemming from vulnerable occupants, complex services, and often older building stock β are undeniable. This mandates a heightened reliance on robust fire engineering principles and the diligent application of the Fire Safety Order 2005, which already places significant duties on 'responsible persons' within these premises. The Imperative for Bespoke Fire Safety Strategies RICS has urged future inclusion of care homes and hospitals for enhanced oversight, highlighting the ongoing perception of risk. In the interim, 'responsible persons' in these sectors must proactively engage in comprehensive fire risk assessments, implement advanced fire protection systems, and develop bespoke evacuation strategies tailored to their unique occupational profiles. Our fire engineering team specialises in developing such targeted solutions, ensuring optimal safety for the most vulnerable. Partnering for Enhanced Protection Beyond HRB Scope While the Building Safety Act 2022's HRB definition may not encompass care homes and hospitals, the moral and legal imperative for exemplary fire safety remains. We offer unparalleled expertise in assessing, designing, and implementing fire safety solutions for complex environments, including healthcare and care facilities. Partner with us to achieve fire safety standards that not only meet legal obligations but also provide the highest level of protection for your patients, residents, and staff. Need Expert Fire Safety Advice? Magnus Opifex Seven LTD provides leading fire engineering, BSR Gateway 2 support, PAS 9980 appraisals, BESS fire safety, and healthcare fire strategy services across the UK. π Call: +44 7486 691724 βοΈ office@magnus opifex.co.uk Request a Free Consultation β