Have your say on fire safety

Posted: 23 October 2024

Smoke alarm installed in a ceiling with smoke circulating around it
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment are seeking feedback on fire safety requirements in the Building Code to offer better protection from fire for people and property.

About the Building Code fire safety review

The Government has committed to improving fire safety in buildings to better protect Kiwis and property.
 
The way we build is changing. Since the last update of the Building Code fire safety regulations in 2012 building uses, technology, building materials and construction methods have moved on rapidly. These changes are adding new complexities to fire safety in our homes and buildings, and to firefighting.

What MBIE is proposing

MBIE has commenced a review of Aotearoa New Zealand’s fire safety requirements in the Building Code.

In its review, MBIE wants to:

  • address issues regarding fire provisions in the Building Code
  • see how they can make it easier for people to make decisions when considering fire provisions in the Building Code  
  • maintain or improve the health, safety and fire safety facilities for people who use buildings.

The review's aim is to ensure that fire safety in the Building Code achieves the purpose and principles of the Building Act 2004, which means:

  • people who use buildings can do so safely and without endangering their health
  • people who use a building can escape from the if it is on fire
  • people entering a building for rescue operations or firefighting are protected from injury
  • protection is provided to limit the extent and effects of the spread of fire.

How to have your say

The consultation is open now and closes 5:00pm on Friday 6 December 2024.

Go to the MBIE website for the relevant documents and how to give your feedback:
Building Code fire safety review 2024

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This information is published by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Chief Executive. It is a general guide only and, if used, does not relieve any person of the obligation to consider any matter to which the information relates according to the circumstances of the particular case. Expert advice may be required in specific circumstances. Where this information relates to assisting people: