Space and Weight Allowances BG84 2024
Space and Weight Allowances (BG 84/2024) was published by BSRIA in February 2024. It was written by Chin Hang “Kay” Lam.
It provides useful information for the early stages of design. Graphs are provided on areas, heights and weights of mechanical, electrical and public health equipment. Information is also included on floor space allowances, space for access, occupancy densities and means of escape.
This guide partly replaces BG 9/2011 Rules of Thumb 5th Edition. Information has been updated based on consultation with designers and manufacturers, and new information has been provided on lifts and electrical switchgear.
Its contents are:
- Introduction.
- Mechanical and public health equipment.
- Electrical equipment.
- Space allowances for lift installations.
- General building services.
- Occupancy densities and structural loadings.
- Means of escape for fire safety.
- References.
You can download the guide here.
BSRIA intends to fully replace BG 9/2011 Rules of Thumb 5th Edition by publishing further new guides in 2024, covering:
- Mechanical criteria.
- Electrical criteria.
- Useful information and glossary.
--BSRIA
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