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
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings.
Featured articles and news
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.
Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc
CIOB launches first-ever degree programme to develop the next generation of construction leaders.
Open for business as of April, with its 2026 prospectus and new pipeline of housing schemes.
The operational value of workforce health
Keeping projects moving. Incorporating unplanned absence and the importance of health, in operations.
A carbon case for indigenous slate
UK slate can offer clear embodied carbon advantages.
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.
The place for vitrified clay pipes in modern infrastructure
Why vitrified clay pipes are reclaiming their role in built projects.
Research by construction PR consultancy LMC published.
Roles and responsibilities of domestic clients
ACA Safety in Construction guide for domestic clients.
Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
Architect and manufacturer gives their low down.


















