Lessons must be learned from building regulations review

Latest News Thu, Aug 31, 2017 10:23 AM

The terms of reference published for the independent review of buiolding regulations and fire safety in high-rises have been broadly welcomed.

The Government has now revealed the scope of the review to be conducted by Dame Judith Hackitt following the Grenfell Tower fire and the subsequent fire safety testing carried out by BRE.

In response to the terms of reference for the independent review of building regulations and fire safety, David Orr, Chief Executive at the National Housing Federation, says: “The Grenfell Tower tragedy powerfully demonstrated a systemic failure in building regulation and fire safety, so an urgent review of the current system is absolutely the right approach.

“Housing providers need to be able to put their trust in a solid regulatory system if they are to continue providing good quality and safe homes for residents.

“We welcome the terms of reference for this review, from which immediate and long-term lessons must be learned. Housing associations will engage with the process where possible to ensure sustained improvement to the regulatory system and the safety of their buildings.”

Safety experts welcome the publication of terms of reference for the review of building regulations and fire safety

“The Grenfell Tower tragedy must prompt a considerable step change in how fire risk in tower blocks is managed,” urged leading safety bodies in Britain.

The safety and health community came together as one to call for swift and urgent action and is pleased that many of the points it raised are found in the publication on 30 August 2017 of the terms of reference for the independent review of building regulations and fire safety, as well as those for the public inquiry.

Calls led by the British Safety Council, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents and Park Health and Safety have helped shape a way forward for the independent review that they welcome.

“The public inquiry and review must lead to measures that make sure solid regulations are robustly enforced and that fire safety competence is viewed as essential and integral to decision-making.

“Following a positive meeting with officials from key Government departments, we look forward to working with them and others to help maintain an effective and proportionate approach to regulation and competence in key areas of health, safety, fire prevention and building standards.

“We stand ready to support the Government’s efforts for improved regulation and look forward to helping achieve effective and practical controls over risks, both in the workplace and in the wider public domain.”

Featured News

Specification news
MPs uncover evidence of appalling housing conditions

Ahead of an evidence session next week with witnesses including Kwajo Tweneboa,...

Read More >>

Specification news
NHBC and ARL deliver successful brownfield webinar...

NHBC was pleased to support the Association for Rental Living (ARL) in the delivery...

Read More >>

BUILDING PRODUCT LIBRARY - LATEST BROCHURES

Your Specialist Partner in Composite Steel Roof & Floor Decking Brochure

Your Specialist Part...
By RMD Profiles Ltd

Download Now >>

PVC-U System Fully Reversible Windows by Epwin Window Systems Brochure

PVC-U System Fully R...
By Epwin window systems...

Download Now >>

Spectus Bevelled Windows and Doors Brochure

Spectus Bevelled Win...
By Epwin window systems...

Download Now >>

Vertical Sliding Sash Window Brochure

Vertical Sliding Sas...
By Epwin window systems...

Download Now >>

Two-Part Cill System Brochure

Two-Part Cill System
By Epwin window systems...

Download Now >>

BUILDING PRODUCT DIRECTORY - LATEST PRODUCTS

DUOFLEX
DUOFLEX

DUOFLEX is a high quality elastomeric bitumen, hot bonded to the substrate incorporating the fleece...

Read More >>

TECSOUND
TECSOUND

TECSOUND is a polymer based, bitumen-free, high-density synthetic membrane. The combination of its...

Read More >>

ISOLAIR MULTI
ISOLAIR MULTI

ISOLAIR MULTI is a natural and ecological vapour-permeable, windproof and water-repellent thermal...

Read More >>

CONSTRUCTION VIDEOS - LATEST VIDEOS

Discover the Power of Blue Roofs in Urban Flood Management
Discover the Power of Blue Roofs in Urban Flood Management

In this video, we explore how blue roofs are transforming urban landscapes by helping to mitigate...

Watch Now >>

RMD Profiles - UK Experts in Metal Decking, Design Installation
RMD Profiles - UK Experts in Metal Decking, Design Installation

At RMD Profiles, we’re more than just metal decking. From supply-only solutions to full design and...

Watch Now >>

A responsible addition: HIMACS shapes are now SCS-Certified for recycled content
A responsible addition: HIMACS shapes are now SCS-Certified for recycled content

HIMACS has long been the solid surface material of choice for architects and designers looking for a...

Watch Now >>