Access Panel Rules and Regulations That You Must Know

Access panels allow for easy access into ceilings and wall voids. They can be used for multiple purposes, but you must adhere to legal requirements when planning where to put them.

Whether you’re renovating your property or have been advised to use access panels, read on to discover everything you need to know about the rules and regulations associated.

What Is an Access Panel?

An access panel is a panel or door that enables you to access a shut-off area of space such as:

• Lofts
• An area where electrical devices are kept
• Areas that contain valves, drains and plumbing

The panels used in these instances are usually plastic access panels, though can also sometimes be made with plywood. They can be minimalist and plain in style or feature a decorative design to keep with the rest of your home’s décor.

Wiring systems and devices benefit from being shielded by access panels, to both hide away unattractive cables and to ensure there are no safety risks on display for young or vulnerable people. A simple frame and removable door are generally fitted to the panel to allow you to enter the area without difficulty.

Is Loft Access A Legal Requirement?

Yes, it’s a legal requirement to have access to loft space within a building. For buildings with three or more stories, the access hatch must be fire resistant for at least 30 minutes.

There are no official building regulations or restrictions on the size a loft hatch or access panel needs to be, but for your own convenience, an approximate length of 53cm (minimum) on each side is recommended for easy and comfortable access.

What Are The Rules and Regulations For Access Panels?

Failing to comply with any kind of building regulation can result in you having to remove the renovation entirely or could even lead to an expensive fine. As well as the penalties put in place, failing to adhere to building rules and regulations could risk not only your own safety but the safety of others, too.

Regulation: Part B

The rules and regulations for part B refer to the requirements of the access panel in the event of a fire occurring. The legal requirements state that the linings of the materials employed in the construction of both the property and the building need to be suitably fire-resistant to safeguard residents.

Access points should be in place for emergency services, and the fire shouldn’t be able to spread far. In the event of a fire, it’s essential that there is an adequate route of escape for all occupants of the building, in addition to an appropriate way of notifying others of the presence of the fire. 

Regulation: Part E

Part E of the regulations refers to the acoustic ratings of the access panels. The rules state that the panel must have the same level, at least, of acoustic ratings as the ceiling or walls on which it is fitted. All access panels are required to have the ability to block out a specific number of decibels, with the exact number being dependent on the structure itself.

Regulation: Part J

Part J refers to the rules for properties that possess a fan-assisted boiler (boilers that have small cross-sectional flue ducts that provide fresh air to the burner).

Most boilers today are fan-assisted, which means part J will be relevant to the majority of people. The regulation states that if the flue is concealed behind a wall or ceiling void, an appropriate inspection hatch must be installed to allow people to examine the flue. Be aware that the access panel must still be in keeping with the fire rating of the surrounding wall or ceiling.

Regulation: Part L

Part L of the regulations refers to the temperature of the access panels. Panels, with particular attention to loft hatches, should have a suitable design to be able to both trap heat and prevent it from escaping. The regulations state that the hatch must have a U value of 0.35 or lower – the U value refers to the unit of measurement given to calculate heat loss, so the lower the value is, the lower the percentage is of heat lost.

Don’t risk your safety -  always take building and planning regulations into account. They are there for a reason!