AHI - MTC Revision Document - Jan 21v2

Safety, Health, Environment & Quality (Anglian Home Improvements)














Anglian Windows




MTC Revision Document


























































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This Document

The information within this document is designed solely as a revision document aimed at supporting the
installers who are to undertake knowledge/ theory test compiled by GQA Qualifications.

The reason for this document is that all too frequently we can become engrossed in booklets 70 to 90
pages in length when in reality we only need to look at the basics. However, the information in this
summary document should, but may not, cover every single question in the Fenestration Installation
knowledge tests and site observations. We would still advise you look at the other support material
available including industry recognised good practice guides and up to date Building Regulations
information.

This revision document covers a wide range of knowledge requirements that are mainly concerned with
the best recognised practice for installation, the need to understand the Building Regulations related to
our industry including knowledge surrounding Health and Safety. Please note that all legislation,
regulations and best practice apply to every company regardless of their size from the typical “one-man
band” scenario to the largest organisations.


Legislation

Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
This is the primary legislation affecting how all businesses must operate in the United Kingdom (UK).
The Act contains many sections but with sections 2 to 9 being the most pertinent in respect of the
protection and welfare of both employees and anyone who may be affected by the work being
undertaken. The Act enables the creation of specific requirements through regulations, with some of
the most relevant to the glazing industry are mentioned below.

Note that installers shall only be classed as self-employed in respects of National Insurance and Tax
purposes, in all other instances they shall be classified as under the direct control of Anglian.

The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM2015)

The law applies to the whole construction process on all construction projects, from concept to
completion, it identifies various duty holders and what they must do to comply with the law to ensure
projects are carried out in a way that secures the Health and Safety of all those involved.

Clients are identified as duty holders; these can be either organisations or individuals for whom a
constructions project is carried out or they can be domestic clients who have construction work done on
their own home/family home that is not part of a business and whether for profit or not.

CDM 2015 sets out the principle’s duty holders should use in their approach to identify the measures
they should take to control the risks to health and safety in a project.

In summary the general principles of prevention are:
(a) Avoid risks where possible;

(b) Evaluate those risks that cannot be avoided; and

(c) Put in place proportionate measures that control them at source.

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CDM 2015 requires all duty holders including designers, principal designers, principal contractors and
contractors to take account of the principles in carrying out their duties.



Work at Height Regulations 2005 (as amended)

Due to the nature of work undertaken the Working at Height Regulations 2005, hold particular
significance. Working at height is a major hazard and is one that is faced almost daily by replacement
window installers, most commonly up to and including first floor level, but can include work on tower
blocks many floors high. It is quoted by the HSE that work at height is the biggest single cause of
workplace deaths and one of the main causes of major injury. It is essential to remember that work at
height is classified as anywhere from which a person can fall.

Where work at height is required, there are duties to ensure the work at height is properly planned and
organised carried out by competent persons and that the place where the work done is safe.

Scaffold, the constructor of a scaffold shall inspect the scaffold and be satisfied it is in condition suitable
to perform the duty for which it was erected before it is handed over for use. Scaffolds shall only be
used where an inspection handover report and or an inspection report by a competent person has been
completed prior to first use and at intervals of no more than seven days or following alterations or
adverse weather conditions. Most scaffolds will also have a Scaff Tag indicating its suitability for use
and the date of last inspection.

Tower scaffolds and Easi Dec shall only be erected by or under the supervision of trained and
competent persons, all equipment shall be erected in accordance with the manufactures instructions
and prior to use the competent person shall complete a safety handover checklist.

Leaning ladders of suitable standards can be used for short duration minor finishing works, subject to
suitable ground conditions, be fitted with top and bottom stability devices and at an angle of 75% or a
ratio of 1 in 4. User should always be able to maintain 3 points of contact.


The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended in 2002)
The regulations detail, where possible, the requirements on avoiding and eliminating manual handling,
provide general advice on risk assessment and principles for reduction.

Where manual handling is unavoidable, consideration should be given to the use of mechanical aids
and risk assessments completed prior to moving any materials. Routes must be planned, obstacles
removed, and rests planned. Factors such as size, weight and shapes of products should be
considered along with lifting capability of the individuals. The HSE do not specify how much individuals
can lift, but instead give guidance and emphasize it is up to the individual to make an assessment on
how much they can comfortably lift. Where possible consideration should be given to tandem lifts or
breaking down the materials into manageable components.

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)
These Regulations, often abbreviated to PUWER, place duties on people and companies who own,
operate or have control over work equipment.

PUWER also places responsibilities on businesses and organisations whose employees use work
equipment, whether owned by them or not.
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PUWER requires that equipment provided for use at work is:
• suitable for the intended use
• safe for use, maintained in a safe condition and inspected to ensure it is correctly installed and
does not subsequently deteriorate
• used only by people who have received adequate information, instruction and training
• accompanied by suitable health and safety measures, such as protective devices and controls.
These will normally include emergency stop devices, adequate means of isolation from sources
of energy, clearly visible markings and warning devices
• used in accordance with specific requirements, for mobile work equipment and power presses.
The term ‘inspection’ is used in PUWER. The purpose of an inspection is to identify whether the
equipment can be operated, adjusted and maintained safely and that any deterioration (for example,
any defect, damage or wear) can be detected and remedied before it results in unacceptable risks.

The scope of ‘work equipment’ is extremely wide. It covers almost any equipment used at work,
including:

(a) Toolbox tools such as hammers, knives, handsaws, etc.
(b) Machines such as drills, circular saws, excavators, dumper trucks etc.

(c) Lifting equipment such as hoists, lift trucks, elevating work platforms, lifting slings etc.
(d) Other equipment such as ladders, hop ups etc.

(f) An installation such as a series of machines or equipment connected together, for example a window
manufacturing line or scaffolding or similar access equipment.

The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require that any electrical equipment that has the potential to
cause injury is maintained in a safe condition. However, the Regulations do not specify what needs to
be done, the HSE provides guidance on how to maintain equipment including the use of portable
appliance testing (PAT) which is often seen as meeting the legal requirement.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 as amended
(COSHH)

COSHH is the law that requires the control substances that are hazardous to health.


Prevention and or reduction of workers exposure to hazardous substances is achieved by:


• Finding out what the health hazards are.

• Deciding how to prevent harm to health (COSHH risk assessment);
• Providing control measures to reduce harm to health.

• Making sure the control measures are used.
• Keeping all control measures in good working order.

• Providing information, instruction and training for employees and others.
• Planning for emergencies.


The COSHH risk assessment should also include information on the safe disposal of the substance and
or empty packaging/container, these are usually different

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Many substances subject to COSHH will also fall under the CLP regulations, which are for classification,

labelling & packaging of chemicals/substances.


Packaging and or containers of substances the are hazardous will display hazard pictograms to alert us
to the presence of a hazardous chemical. The pictograms help us to know that the chemicals we are

using might cause harm to people or the environment. The CLP hazard pictograms appear in the
shape of a diamond with a distinctive red border and white background. One or more pictograms might

appear on the labelling of a single chemical.


CLP hazard pictograms







Explosive (Symbol: exploding bomb)









Flammable (Symbol: flame)









Oxidising (Symbol: flame over circle)








Corrosive (Symbol: Corrosion)









Acute toxicity (Symbol: Skull and crossbones)









Hazardous to the environment (Symbol: Dead tree and fish)

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Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012
The Regulations set out legal duties and guidance about work which disturbs, or is likely to disturb,
asbestos, asbestos sampling and laboratory analysis.

Work with asbestos is categorised into specific classifications and must only be undertaken by
individuals who are trained and competent to carry out the specific types of work.

They also place a specific duty to manage asbestos on the owners and/or those responsible for
maintenance in non-domestic premises.
The regulations specify a duty to provide asbestos awareness training for all who could foreseeably
disturb the fabric of a building and expose them to asbestos or who supervise or influence the work. In
particular, it should be given to those workers in the refurbishment, maintenance and allied trades
where it is foreseeable that asbestos containing materials may become exposed during their work.

The training provides details on the types of asbestos, typical materials that contain asbestos and
where they can be found in buildings, such as soffits, textured coatings, infill panels, safe working
practices and what to do if unidentified materials are found. If unsure works must always cease until the
materials can be analysed and results determine the existence of Asbestos or not.

Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrence Regulations 2013
(RIDDOR)
RIDDOR puts duties on employers, the self-employed and people in control of work premises (the
Responsible Person) to notify the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) of certain serious workplace
accidents, occupational diseases and specified dangerous occurrences (near misses).

This is so they can identify where and how risks arise, and whether they need to be investigated. This
allows the enforcing authorities to target their work and provide advice about how to avoid work-related
deaths, injuries, ill health and accidental loss.

It is important to remember that all accidents, incidents and near misses must be reported to
management. Not only is it a requirement under RIDDOR to keep records of certain
accidents/incidents that are not reportable it enables investigation and implementation of any necessary
changes to prevent recurrence.

Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (PPE)

The regulations are in place to ensure that suitable personal protective equipment is provided to those
who may be exposed to a risk to their health or safety while at work.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is defined in the regulations as "all equipment (including clothing
affording protection against the weather) which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work
which protects them against one or more risks to their health and safety". PPE would include such
things as gloves, hard hats, eye & hearing protection, safety harnesses, and safety footwear.

It is important to remember that PPE should be the last resort in protecting users after all other controls
to remove or reduce the risk have been implemented.

Users have a duty of care to co-operate with the employer and to take reasonable care of their
equipment.


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Standard prescription glasses are not an acceptable form of eye protection, special prescription safety
glasses can be obtained, or the use of over-glasses is recommended.


There are numerous additional regulations that are aimed at keeping us safe at work, the regulations
mentioned within this document are a summary of those most relevant to Installation work and
installers.

Health and safety must be taken seriously everyday someone is severely harmed or lose their life
because of an accident or incident that could have simply been avoided.

You must always remember that “you are responsible for yourself and anyone who is affected by your
acts or omissions at work”.

The acts are the things you have done, and the omissions are the things you should or could have
done to prevent accidents
Installation Best Practice
The following is the recognition of good practice mainly involved within the removal of the existing
frames and installation of new windows and doors. As with everything the following information is
aimed at the perfect scenario because the perfect scenario is the only way to set best practice
standards and guidance.

What is a site? All places of work are classed as sites and are normally classed as either a commercial
site or a domestic site, either way work must be carried out safely and in accordance to current health
and safety legislation and in line with building regulations.

When arriving on site the installer must carry out a separate dynamic risk assessment before starting
any work. Reasons for carrying out a risk assessment are to ensure the hazards have not altered
from the date of survey and the installer is sure it is safe to work. If scaffolding has been erected for
use by approved contractors, then hand over certificates/inspections must be observed before
actively using the scaffolding, scaff tags are also a way of identifying a scaffold has a current record
of inspection. In the event that access equipment/mobile towers are required only competent trained
persons can erect the equipment.

Note if hazards are identified that are not recorded on the surveyor’s risk assessment, then you
must notify your supervisor/manager so that adequate safety measures can be implemented. This
is especially important in instances where you discover a material which you suspect may contain
asbestos. Work must stop until the materials have been analysed and you are sure it is safe to
proceed.

The installer should take every precaution to ensure that within reason they manage and monitor the
site for any potential health and safety issues. It is worth noting that the installer is always
responsible for anyone or anything that could be affected by their work.

Preparation to Start Work
Provisional checks should be carried out to ensure that the replacement products are suitable before
any work begins. It is essential that measurements of the replacement materials should be taken
and matched against the details recorded on the site survey and actual structural opening. It is
important to remember that the replacement windows or doors should be building regulation
compliant or at the very least not be making the situation any less satisfactory in respect of the
building regulations than it was originally.

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This could be by removing windows with background (trickle) ventilation and replacing with windows
without or replacing a window that was fire escape compliant with one that is non-compliant.

Structural checks should be carried out looking for signs of any movement or subsidence.

Remove/ move all vulnerable objects with the owner’s consent and place protective sheeting inside and
outside accordingly. Ensure safety signs are erected and all areas cordoned off to prevent
unauthorised access to the working environment.

Frame Removal
All frame removals are different within their nature and every installer will approach their work in a
different manner. Either way the work must be done methodically and safely. Speed is not of the
essence, careful work in the preparation will save time in making good in the long term. Every
aperture is different, care must be taken in removing the old materials.



All Damp-Proof Membranes (DPMs) are there for a purpose and should not be removed, if they are
unavoidably removed then legislation says they must be replaced. The replacement window will
not protect against damp in the apertures where the DPM has been removed.

Where windows are to be re-placed checks should be made for the presence of a lintel or some
form of structural support. The surveyor should identify if existing supports are in place and if not, it
is recommended that a permanent structural supports are always installed. Please note PVCu
frames must never be load bearing. Where a window and brick work are to be removed to form a
new door access then these are now only covered under building control, FENSA do not recognise
the process. This also applies to any structural alterations. Loadings associated with “structure”
are, direct loads, wind loads, imposed loads.


Removal of bay windows
In order to maintain the structural integrity when replacing a bay window, it is essential that temporary
supports such as adjustable steel props are used.

It is important to ensure that the walls, floors or beams that may be affected by the window replacement
are adequately supported prior to removing the windows. Care should be taken to protect internal
ceiling and floor finishes at support bearing points. The sequence of removal of the windows in a two-
storey bay should ensure that unnecessary damage to the lower bay construction does not occur and
structural stability is not impaired. It is important that the structure is always adequately supported.

After supporting the bay structure, the windows should be removed carefully, ensuring that the
minimum of damage is caused to reveals, plaster, finishes and trims. It is recommended that structural
mullions are removed one at a time, and that both the temporary supports and the pre-existing
structure are closely monitored for any signs of settlement.

Depending upon the design of the structure at the head of the bay window, it may be necessary to
leave the head of the frame in position providing that there is no rot present. If the condition of the
aperture or the damp proof course (DPC) is not considered to be fit for purpose or does not correspond
with that described by the surveyor, the installer should refer back to the surveyor or the company for
agreement to the proposed solution.
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Care should be taken to ensure that no applied loads are carried by the individual segments of the
window. Bearing plates should be used on bay poles when loads are transferred from or to masonry or
timber. Where there is no danger of the bay pole damaging the fabric of the building with which it
comes into contact, bearing plates are not necessarily required e.g. where the bay pole bears directly
onto a steel joist.

Bay windows must have load bearing systems that runs through the cill directly to the head. If you
cannot confirm the bay is load bearing, then you must assume that it is load bearing and therefore
install bay supporting systems

Installation of the replacement window assembly should not start until any defects in the structure have
been rectified. Installers should refer to the Bay Window installation guide for further detailed
instructions.

Bow type replacement bay

It is recommended that the structure of a Bow Bay Replacement should be constructed in such a way
as to provide adequate means of support to a flat roof setup. This will take into account any loads
imposed by a heavy snow fall which could otherwise compromise the structure.

The replacement products should have structural jointing strips in-between the frames such as mullions
in a door combination frame this will provide additional strength to the product.





Frame Preparation
Frame add-ons are required silicone shall be used between the dry joints and the add-ons screwed to
the frame at 300 to 400 centres.

The joint between the cill and frame should have a generous bead of silicone applied to the back edge
and across the ends of the cill, the cill should be installed or fixed to the frame at centres 300mm to
400mm. The cills should be cut to allow for additional expansion 2mm for white products and 5mm for
foiled products.

Aperture Preparation
Aperture preparation will vary dependant on the type of property and the type of frame that will have
been removed. In general, remove old nails, loose mortar, and old mastic lines, where required
remove the tongue from the window board. It is important to note that oil-based mastics must be
entirely removed during aperture preparation, failure to do so could result in poor adhesion with
other products, discolouration of the new products, and DPC failure. Whilst preparing the aperture
consideration should be given for suitable fixing points and making good. DPM must be installed in
the required areas this will be dependent on the property type, if timber is used within the aperture
as a fixing aid then the timber should be treated material and used in conjunction with DPM’s.


Typical Frame Positions and Aperture Preparation:


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Frame Installation
Following the aperture and frame preparation the frame can be lifted into position. It is important to
consider the location of the frame within the aperture to ensure a secure fixing and weather
proofing. Consideration should also be given to internal and external finishing. When projecting or
over hanging cills are used it is recommended that the cill must extend a minimum of 25mm from the
face of the structure. Ideally frames should have 5mm all-round clearance, giving an overall
tolerance of 10mm from the tight aperture size for white frames up to 3000mm in width, for nonwhite
frames 15mm overall clearance from tight aperture size is required up to 3000mm in width.

There are two principal methods of fixing available, which may be used separately or in combination,
these are through frame fixings and lug fixings.

If lug fixings are used, they should be of a suitable material to resist corrosion and, if used externally
they should be secured to the surround using “one-way screws” or other security screws.

When installing windows or doors into block work it is expected that the fixings penetrate at least 40mm
for casement windows and 50mm for doors and door sets into the supporting construction.

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Screws should be sized to penetrate at least 25mm into timber.
Connections to steelwork over 2mm thick should be into pre-tapped holes with machine screws of a
minimum 5mm diameter or alternatively power driven hardened self-cutting screws.
Packers/shims must be used appropriately between the frame and aperture behind the fixings and
under all mullions. Frame packers will hold the frame solid and square and should span the frame
from back to front.

Any electrical or specialist items, such as television aerials or telephone wires should be re-routed
around the frame of the window. Where this is not feasible, then alternatives should be agreed with
the customer and any specialist.

It is recommended that all 4 sides of the frame should be fixed where possible and a minimum of 2
fixings per jamb is required. The presence of pre-cast concrete or steel lintels may make it
impracticable or pose severe problems in achieving the fixing distances and locations.

In these instances, the use of polyurethane foam could be used in conjunction with mechanical
fixings with a fixing tolerance recommended between 10 and 15mm. Please note polyurethane
foam must never be used as the sole method of fixing but could additionally be used for perimeter
filling for added insulation to prevent cold spots.

See below for fixing distances:

PVC-U windows and doors:

Where possible, all four sides of the frame should be secured as follows: -
• Corner fixings should be between 150 mm and 250 mm from the external corner.
• No fixings should be less than 150 mm from the centre line of a mullion or transom.
• Intermediate fixings should be at centres no greater than 600mm.
• There should be a minimum of two fixings on each jamb.

If the head is fixed with polyurethane foam, then the fixings at the head may be as follows:
• Frame width up to 1200mm – no fixings
• Frame width 1201mm to 2400mm – one fixing
• Frame width 2401mm to 3600mm – 2 equally spaced fixings.





























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Timber Windows and Doorsets

Where possible, the sides of the frame should be secured as follows: -
a. Corner jamb fixings should be between 150 mm and 250 mm from the external corner.
b. Intermediate fixings should be at centres no greater than 600mm.
c. There should be a minimum of two fixings on each jamb.
d. On windows over 1800 mm wide, central head and sub-sill fixings should be provided.







































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Frame Preparation for Glazing

Care should be taken to ensure that all swarf and other debris are removed from the rebates and
that checks are physically carried out to ensure drainage is working effectively. Glazing packers
should then be placed appropriately to suit the frame before commencing with the glazing. The glass
should be checked to ensure it is free from damage and is compliant with building regulations.


Standard Glass terminologies

Annealed, normally 4mm or 6mm commonly known as float. Note: this is not safety glass.

Tempered or Toughened, most common form of safety glazing, glass is graded either Grade A or
Class 1

Laminated, another form of safety glass normally 6.4mm, this glass is graded either Grade B or Class
2

Triple glazed units, the middle pane of these units must always be toughened to withstand the
retention and differential changes of heat captured with the insulating glass unit (IGU)

6.8mm Laminated, this is classed as a security glass and is normally used in conjunction with
Approved Document Q, Graded B or Grade 2
Glazing

Glazing should be carried out to ensure the frame is fully operational after the process and there is
no snagging between the sash and outer frame. Drainage should not be affected, and the sash
should be level against the outer frame when closed. It is good practice to make constant checks for
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ease of operation during the actual glazing process. All decorative glass must be fully aligned
between sashes and fixed panels.

All glass must meet Building Regulations/Standards and safety glazing must be installed where
applicable. (See Approved Document K for England and N in Wales for detailed information) The
logo that indicates the glass is safety glazing must be visible after installation with all markings
clearly displayed.

Please note that if the safety glass logo is not clearly visible after the installation, then the unit will
have to be replaced or re-etched. If during the installation the installer finds that the glass is within
the critical glazing area but is not safety glass, a replacement unit must be ordered, the unit must not
be installed, even on a temporary basis. A flat panel or boarding must be used as temporary glazing
until the replacement unit can be legally installed. Remember the installer is responsible for what
they install and finish.

Timber glazing requires specialist guidance; all other questions related to installations remain the same
and apply accordingly. Most timber systems when glazed will require a sealant to cap the external bead
to protect against the weather unless specified different.

Finishing’s
Finishing’s will vary with the type of installation and surrounds both internally and externally. Most
surveyors will specify the finishing details, but unforeseen and hidden problems could have a bearing
on how the work is completed.




Perimeter joints should be sealed on both the outside and the inside, with a sealant appropriate
to:
• the frame surfaces
• the substrate material
• joint size and configuration
• anticipated joint movement
• anticipated exposure to weather.

Gaps between the frame and aperture will mainly be sealed using a low modulus silicone, please note
that any gaps larger than 6mm all-round the frame must have a gap filler, or a PE rod applied before
sealing.

Care should also be taken to ensure the sealants are the correct colour and that they are in date and
match the specification. The gap filler must not allow the silicone to adhere to it therefore ensuring
that the silicone is pressed firmly to the sides of the frame and aperture and will allow for movement.
PVCu /Cellular trims used for external purposes must only be used for enhanced visual appearance
and not used for weatherproofing. The frames must be weatherproof before installing any final cover
trims. Likewise, when making good render around the edge of frame weatherproof the gap between
the frame and aperture prior to replacing the render and any final touches.

Handover
Before hand over ensure the site is left completely free from any debris and all vulnerable objects
have been replaced and that all dust sheets have been removed. Before leaving site ensure the

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client is aware of how to fully operate the newly installed products. The best way to do this is to
demonstrate the operation with the client and then invite them to operate the systems under your
supervision. It is also good practice that if the work will continue for more than one day, advising the
client on how to operate the new fixtures could be advantageous in any event of any emergencies.
The Sales of Goods Act 1994 says warranties must be issued and that customer details,
maintenance contact numbers and validity dates are clearly visible on all warranties.

Maintenance
Advising the client on basic maintenance is part of a quality installation and will help to prolong the
effective life of the products. Cleaning of the frames is best using a detergent and warm water or a non-
abrasive cleaner, the cleaning of glass is recommended using detergent and warm water or a
recognised glass cleaner, all abrasive products must be avoided at all times.

Light oil is recommended to periodically lubricate moving parts and areas of friction such as the friction
stays, locking mechanisms/straps and locking keeps.

Building Regulations
The Building Act 1984 brought fundamental changes to the Building Regulations regime. It introduced:
• Functional performance standards, set in terms of what was adequate, reasonable or
appropriate, supported by statutory guidance in the Approved Documents (A to Q).
• Current Building Regulations are Cited as, Building Regulations 2010.
• Further amendments are available and should be read in conjunction with the regulations.
• All latest revisions are available to view free @ www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations
• Building Regulations contain the rules for building work in new and altered buildings to make
them safe and accessible and limit waste and environmental damage.
• Supporting guidance known as Approved Documents detail how compliance with Building
Regulations may be achieved.
• There are fifteen Approved Documents applicable to England & Wales, plus an additional
guidance document on regulation 7 of the Building Regulations.
• For Scotland see Building (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Scotland) Regulations 2013, these are
again supported by Technical Handbooks but are different to England & Wales.

Understanding the Building Regulations
The regulations state that all replacement windows and doors should not make the situation any less
satisfactory in respect of the approved document than the existing and the regulations should be
complied with as far as reasonably practicable, other than the following which must be complied with.
• Approved Document L
• Approved Document K (for England)
• Approved Document N (for Wales)

It is recommended that if the existing outgoing window or door is not fully compliant but could meet
compliance by simply changing the design of the proposed ingoing product then it would be best
practice to redesign it to be compliant.

SUMMARY OF BUILDING REGULATIONS Approved Document A - Structure

With regard to windows and doors, Approved Document A applies to bay windows and other windows
that are load bearing, e.g. where lintels have not been used. When replacing windows and doors it is vital
that the integrity of any existing structural support is not compromised.


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Approved Document B (fire safety) Volume 1: Dwellings, 2019 edition.

This volume of Approved Document B has been redrafted to clarify its language and content and took
effect on 30 August 2019 for use in England.
Approved Document B has been significantly restructured, the design of blocks of flats has moved from
volume 2 to volume 1.

In relation to replacement windows and doors this volume provides the requirements and provisions for
emergency escape windows and fire doors in dwellings (houses & flats).

Provision for escape from ground storey, except kitchens, all habitable rooms in the ground storey should
open directly onto a hall leading to the entrance or other suitable exit or be provided with a door to outside
or a window as described below.

Provision for escape from floors not more than 4.5m above ground level. Except kitchens, all habitable
rooms in upper storeys of a dwelling house served by one stairwell should be provided with direct access
to a protected stairway or a door/window as described below.

Provision for escape from flats with floors more than 4.5m above ground level should be via means
other than fire escape windows.

Commonly fire doors will be required where a doorway opens onto a protected landing or stairwell in
multiple occupancy dwellings or flatted developments to provide integrity to an escape route.

A window suitable for escape in the event of a fire, this should have an unobstructed openable area
that is at least 0.33m² and at least 450mm high or 450mm wide.

If one of the dimensions is at the 450mm minimum, then the other dimension will need to be at least
734mm to achieve 0.33m².

The route through the window may be at an angle rather than straight through.

The bottom of the openable area should be no more than 1100mm above the floor.


Approved Document B (fire safety) Volume 2: Buildings other than

dwellings, 2019 edition.

Volume 2 2019 edition, has less relevance than previous editions on the domestic window and door
replacement industry as is not concerned with dwellings, although it must be consulted should work be
required on/in hospitals, shops, offices, factories etc.

Approved Document C – Site Preparation and Resistance to Contaminants &
Moisture
Guidance on design of cladding systems and of joints between walls, doors and windows to protect
buildings from precipitation, plus additional information on meeting the requirements under Part M on
thresholds to meet unimpeded access.
o Interface between walls, doors & windows.
o Resistance of joints between walls, doors & windows to resist penetration of rain and prevent
damage to the building. o Damp proof courses to direct moisture outside.

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o Accessible Thresholds.

Approved Document F – Ventilation
Ventilation is required for one or more of the following purposes:

A) Provision of outside air for breathing
B) Dilution and removal of airborne pollutants, including odours
C) Control of excess humidity (arising from water vapour in the indoor air) D) Provision of air for
fuel-burning appliances. See Part J

Purge ventilation is required to remove high levels of pollutants and water vapour. It may also improve
thermal comfort and reduce overheating during the summer.

Requirements for purge ventilation via windows
For hinged or pivot windows that open 30 degrees or more, or for sliding sash windows, the area of
the opening should be at least 1/20 (5%) of the floor area of the room. For a hinged or pivot
th
window that opens less than 30 degrees, the area of the opening should be at least 1/10th (10%) of
the floor area of the room.

Background ventilation (Trickle Ventilators)
It is important that the dwelling can constantly breathe - good indoor air quality is important for health
and also helps protect the fabric of the building from the harmful effects of condensation and mould etc.

Requirements for background ventilation
Where the outgoing window provided background ventilation, the replacement window should also
provide background ventilation. It is acceptable for alternative high-level ventilation to be provided,
e.g. high level air brick. Typically, background ventilation is positioned at least 1.7 metres above
finished floor level to avoid discomfort due to draughts.

Where trickle ventilators are used to provide background ventilation then the following performance is
2
required: - habitable rooms 5000 mm equivalent area. Kitchens, bathrooms and other wet room
2
areas require 2500 mm equivalent area.

Approved Document J - Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems
This covers the air supply and discharge of combustion products for solid fuel, gas and oil appliances,
along with the provision of information for hearths, fireplaces, flues and chimneys.

It provides guidance on the location of outlets from flues which need to be located so as to allow the
dispersal of products of combustion.


As such detailed guidance is provided on distances from openable windows so as to prevent the ingress
of fumes. It is essential that the building must be no more unsatisfactory in relation to the requirement
than before the work was carried out.

The Surveyor must identify and record any existing means of permanent ventilation contained within
the existing products to be removed and the location and distance of flue outlets where the ingress of
fumes is likely to occur.




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These units must not be replaced unless there is permanent ventilation of the equivalent free air space,
either in the new unit, or it has been provided by another method before the installation (in other words,
fitting a core vent).

An instruction from the client must be obtained in such instances detailing the amount of free air space
required, if core vents or other means are to be installed as the means of replacing the permanent
ventilation you must clearly indicate on the survey report the units must not be replaced until it is verified
that the works have been completed.

A change in window design may have an impact on the flue terminal position, particularly in respect of
ingress of fumes from the combustion process.

Any situation being more unsatisfactory after the work is completed must be notified to the client for
resolution.



Locations for Flue Outlets























































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GENERAL GUIDANCE ON COMBUSTION APPLIANCES

Air Supply
To make sure the appliance is burning properly, there must be enough air.
This is known as adventitious air and normally enough to supply an open-flued appliance up to 7KW.
(Usually a non- decorative fuel-effect gas fire without back boiler)

Open Flued Appliances
Open-flued appliances with inputs higher than 7KW need more permanent fresh air. (A standard
domestic boiler would normally be between 15 to 20KW.)
A decorative fuel-effect fire up to 20KW would need 100cm2 of free air.

Room-sealed appliances
Room-sealed appliances do not need extra ventilation. These are normally modern combination boilers.

When surveying PVC-U soffit boards or plastic guttering the locations and distances of heat producing
outlets from gas appliances should be noted for consideration of the effects of heat on the product.

Gas Cookers
Any room containing a gas cooking appliance must have a door or a window which can be opened or
another form of ventilation direct to outside air.

Where there is no existing permanent ventilation then it is not the responsibility of Anglian to install such
ventilation. Equally the Surveyor should not attempt to determine or define whether the level of existing
ventilation is adequate.

Where doubt exists about the ventilation of a combustion appliance, the client must be advised to
consult a specialist/ Gas Safe registered engineer.

Extractor Fans
If extractor fans are to be fitted or replaced in any room or space inside where there is an open-flued
appliance, extra ventilation may be needed. A Gas Safe engineer must carry out a spillage test.

Client confirmation must be sought in all instances where extractor fans are to be fitted or replaced

Approved Document K – Protection from Falling Collision & Impact
All replacement products must comply with this document for safety glazing.

All glass that is installed in, all doors, all side panels within 300mm of a door, all glass areas 800mm of
the finished floor must have safety glass.

Any other potentially vulnerable areas must be considered for safety glazing.

All safety glass must be clearly and visibly marked, the safety glass can be either Toughened,
Laminated or wired safety, if wired safety glass is used it must never exceed 900mm in width or height.

Protection from falling, collision and impact specifies a minimum guarding height of 800mm, except in
the case of a window in a roof where the bottom of the opening may be 600mm above the floor.



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It is recommended that limiting restrictors are always fitted to opening lights less than 800mm above
floor level. These should initially limit the opening to 100mm.






Safety glazing critical locations



































Marking of Safety Glass
Installed Safety Glass in critical locations should be indelibly and legibly marked in such a position that
the whole marking is visible after installation. The glass should be marked with the following:
• The name and trademark of the manufacturer, merchant or installer
• The identifier of the product standard that the safety glass conforms to e.g. BS EN12150
(toughened glass), BS EN 14449 (laminated glass).

Note – Approved Document K only applies to England. Approved Document N applies to Wales.

Approved Document L - Conservation of Fuel and Power
To comply with the 2010 edition of Approved Document L1B, replacement windows should comply with
one of the following:
a) Window Energy Rating minimum (WER) band C
b) Whole window U-Value maximum 1.6 (W/m²·K)
c) Centre pane U-Value maximum 1.2 (W/m²·K) (For exceptional circumstances only e.g. historic
buildings or unique windows).

Only doors with greater than 50% glazing are required to be registered with Local Authority Building
Control/FENSA Competent Person Scheme.

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All replacement glass must be low emissivity glass regardless,
The frames are rated A to G by The British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC)
Additional insulation should be used around the frames, bays and bay conversions to prevent heat loss-
cold air transference and cold spots.

BFRC (Organisation that rates frames and glass combined)
BFRC, rate the energy efficiency of all windows, the highest being A rated the lowest being G rated. To
make it easier Building Regulations only recognise C rated and above. (See chart below)



























Approved Document M – Access to and use of Buildings
The requirement of Part M is that you should not make the building less accessible than it was before the
installation. The height of the sill for a door should not be made worse. In practice there is often a
compromise between compliance (not make access worse) and performance (weatherproofing).

The principal entrance to a dwelling should ideally have a clear opening width of 775mm. When replacing
the principal entrance door every practicable effort should be made to retain the maximum width. The
clear opening width is taken from the edge of the frame on the latch side to the face of the door leaf when
open at 90°.

Approved Document Q – Security
Approved Document Q was introduced on the first of October 2015 and was initially aimed at the
new build sector only. Naturally as time goes by these new build installations could now be subject
to refurbishment

The requirement of Part Q is to ensure that windows and doors installed into a new build situation or a
building with material changes prevent unauthorised access. This is achieved by manufacturing windows
and doorsets to comply with PAS24 – Enhanced security performance requirements for doorsets and
windows in the UK.

Typical areas where materials need to meet this requirement are, locks and keeps, hinges, letter plates,
cylinders and glass, all glass must meet a security standard and is generally a minimum 6.8 mm
laminated. All replacement products must be replaced like for like.



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Fire Rated Glass – Brief Information
Fire rated glass is used to protect areas, stored materials and people from harm or damage.

Fire glass is rated in two ways.

1 = Integrity
Glass rated as integrity only is a fire rated glass that will prevent the passage of flames from one area
to another. The product itself can be rated from 30 minutes to 120 minutes. Fire rated glass that is
integrity only is designed to prevent the spread of flames but will not prevent heat transferal from one
side of the building to the other.

2 = Integrity and Insulation
Glass rated integrity and insulation will provide fire protection from the spread of flames with the
added properties that allow this glass to retain the heat from the fire side of the building and prevent
the transfer of heat from one area to another. Again, this product can be rated from 30 minutes to 120
minutes.

E.g. If there was a room where all the substances stored were potentially explosive the glass installed
would have to be integrity and insulated because the transferal of heat could trigger an explosive
reaction.

Note, all glass types are designed to match criteria that suits today’s market, all glass is tested under
extreme conditions along with the supporting materials such as the frame, sealants, fixings and
beading.

Therefore, any glass supplied must be installed using the same products that were used for the test
conditions.

Other materials may not be compatible and could cause the glass/ screen to fail.

CE Marking
Building Regulations now recognise the requirements for CE marking on products that are installed
in line with European standards. A Declaration of Performance (DOP) should be made accessible
for anyone to see.

Approved Document 7
This approved document provides guidance on how to comply with regulation 7 of the Building
Regulations, the guidance is contained in two sections one on materials and the other on workmanship.

For further detailed information regarding workmanship and standard of materials please refer to the
FENSA booklet April 2014 version.

Please be aware that a Competent Persons Scheme inspection team can fail installations on the
grounds of poor workmanship.

Miscellaneous information on portable fire extinguishers


Fires do occur from time to time and you may be in a position, if you feel safe, competent and able to
do so to discharge a portable extinguisher onto a fire.


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In this event you should know what type of extinguisher is correct for the type of fire you are dealing
with, see chart below:
















































































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