Steel structures are used all over the world in every industry due to their strength, cost-effectiveness, and rapid construction process. For industrial, commercial, agricultural, or household use, steel structures are a robust and cost-effective solution to each architectural need. It is important, however, to explore the lawful boundaries of planning permission and fire legislation before the construction process. Such regulations help ensure steel buildings are up to safety, environmental, and construction standards, eliminating possible danger and making the process legal.
Planning Permission for Steel Buildings
Planning permission is needed for the majority of new buildings and large structural changes. Certain small steel buildings are, however, not within allowed development rights and require no official permission. Planning permission can have size, location, use, and environmental effects put on them as conditions.
For example, a steel building can be erected in a housing estate as a small workshop or storehouse and would not necessarily need to be granted planning permission, provided it is not breaching the height and space restrictions. If the construction is for industry or business purposes, i.e., warehouse or factory, planning permission would be needed. Farm buildings are also under some conditions when it comes to agricultural permitted development rights, but these will be based on the size of the farm and what is being used on the building.
There are many factors that local authorities take into account when granting planning permission for steel buildings. These are:
Aesthetic impact on the area – Large or ugly buildings may have to be reconfigured.
Environmental issue – If the steel building would have any impact on the local wildlife, water table, or greenbelt area, then there might be a requirement for additional permission.
Accessibility and transport links – Planning for vehicle access and pedestrian connection to the building.
Structural safety and suitability – Inspection of the building against local building codes and safety features.
Prior to commencing work, ring the local planning department to see if planning permission is required. A complete planning application including architectural drawings, site plan, and structural information may assist in procuring faster approval.
Fire Regulations for Steel Buildings
Fire protection is a critical component of steel building construction to safeguard the building for its occupants and meet UK building regulations. Steel itself is fireproof, but the intensity of heat from fire can render it vulnerable to collapse unless proper fire protection is in place.
Approved Document B of Building Regulations has the fire safety standards for buildings. The significant fire safety measures to be taken into account in steel buildings are:
Fire-resistant coatings – Steel framing can be coated with fireproof paint or sprayed with them to render steel structures more fire-resistant and avoid structural failure due to a fire.
Compartmentalisation – Fire-resisting compartments divide the building to slow down the fire and smoke spread.
Emergency exits and means of escape – Evacuation should be by means of safe and easily located means of escape.
Fire detection and alarm systems – Emergency lighting, alarm systems, and smoke detectors should be installed in order to alert occupants to fires.
Automatic sprinkler systems – Required in buildings considered to be at high risk to life of fire spread.
Fire codes may also be more specific in terms of the size and purpose of the building. Public assembly halls, factories, and warehouse buildings will usually require more sophisticated fire extinguishing systems than small storage facilities.
In addition to structural protection against fire, protection for occupants of buildings is also required. Fire practice exercises, staff personnel training, and proper fire risk assessment provide security in steel structures. COntact us to find out more about the regulations.
Services of architects, structural engineers, and planning consultants need to be appointed before the construction so that there is compliance with all the legislation. Shoddy construction or failure to adhere to fire safety standards may attract legal consequences, project delay, and demolition.
With proper compliance with planning and fire codes, steel buildings can be constructed safely, economically, and to complete UK building standards. Industrial or commercial or residential, whether a steel building complies with all the legally required standards is the key to its long-term existence and safety.