All nine provinces in Austria have adopted a high rise model building code which requires sprinklers in all new buildings over 32m, reports the European Fire Sprinkler Network.
The code also offers reductions in fire resistance to buildings between 22m and 32m if sprinklers are installed. Austria is also drafting a new industrial building model code which would require sprinklers in most new large warehouses, depending on factors such as the height and type of stored goods.
Elsewhere in Europe, a new model code in Germany is expected to require sprinklers in all buildings higher than 22m except for residential buildings, where the threshold is likely to be higher. And in Portugal, new draft regulations would see sprinkler systems installed in many new buildings, including hotels, public buildings and industrial and warehouse facilities.
In England and Wales, the government’s draft updated Approved Document B requires sprinklers in new care homes and apartment buildings over 30m high.The threshold in Scotland is 18m.
