Building standards technical handbook 2019: non-domestic

The building standards technical handbooks provide guidance on achieving the standards set in the Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004. This handbook applies to a building warrant submitted on or after 1 October 2019 and to building work which does not require a warrant commenced from that date.


3.22 Combustion appliances – air for cooling

Mandatory Standard

Standard 3.22

Every building must be designed and constructed in such a way that each fixed combustion appliance installation receives air for cooling so that the fixed combustion appliance installation will operate safely without threatening the health and safety of persons within the building.

3.22.0 Introduction

In some cases, combustion appliances may need air for cooling in addition to air for combustion. This air will keep control systems in the appliance at a safe temperature and/or ensure that casings remain safe to touch.

Conversions - in the case of conversions, as specified in regulation 4, the building as converted shall meet the requirement of this standard (regulation 12, schedule 6).

3.22.1 Appliance compartments

Where appliances require cooling air, appliance compartments should be large enough to enable air to circulate and high and low level vents should be provided.

3.22.2 Supply of air for cooling to oil-firing appliances

An oil-firing appliance installed in an appliance compartment should have a supply of air for cooling by way of permanent ventilation, in addition to air for combustion, either direct to the open air or to an adjoining space. This also includes a sub-floor space. Air for cooling should be provided in accordance with the recommendations in BS 5410: Part 1: 1997 and in OFTEC Technical Book 3 for an oil-firing appliance located in an appliance compartment.

3.22.3 Supply of air for cooling to gas-fired appliances

A gas-fired appliance installed in an appliance compartment should have supply of air for cooling. Air for cooling should be provided in accordance with the recommendations in BS 5440: Part 2: 2000 for a gas-fired appliance located in an appliance compartment.

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