The Government has
announced a promise to introduce a stronger and more effective regulatory
system for building safety.
This includes
tougher sanctions for those who disregard residents’ safety, more rigorous
standards and guidance for those undertaking building work, and a stronger
voice for residents.
Building a safer future: an implementation plan
explains how Government will implement the recommendations made by Dame Judith
Hackitt in her review of building regulations and fire safety published
following the Grenfell Tower fire.
In addressing the
challenges laid down by Dame Judith Hackitt, Government says:
- For those who live in
high-rise residential buildings: an assurance that safety is actively
managed and a means of recourse if safety concerns are being ignored; and
more information on the safety measures in the building and clarity on
their role in ensuring their homes are safe.
- For those who regulate the
buildings: greater powers to intervene and greater ability to pursue those
who do not follow the requirements.
- For those who develop the
buildings: a requirement to be explicit about how safety is incorporated
in buildings, a clear set of gateway points to engage with the regulators
and a transparent recording and handover of safety information.
- For those who own existing
buildings: an active demonstration that the ongoing safety of the building
is being managed effectively.
- For those who provide
materials used in construction: greater oversight that products are safe
and are being marketed as safe.
- For all of the above, a
clearer set of responsibilities with accountabilities at the right level
and clearer guidance to operate within.
Responding to the
announcement Peter Caplehorn, Construction Products Association Deputy Chief
Executive and Policy Director, said: “The UK construction industry is ready to
show we can overhaul how our buildings are designed, built and managed.
This implementation plan from government will lead the culture change to create
a more effective regulatory framework.
“The Construction
Products Association believes there is a pressing need to address current
issues around unclear regulations, roles and responsibilities, inadequate
product quality, weak compliance and sanctions, and how we engage with users
and residents of buildings.
"We are pleased to have contributed towards Dame
Judith Hackitt’s Independent Review, as both Chair of the Regulations and
Guidance Working Group and contributing to the Golden Thread and Quality
Assurance and Products Working Groups.
“As we’ve made clear
previously, there remains for our sector a lack of transparency around how
information about the performance of products is made available. That’s why
further to our recommendations directly referenced in Dame Judith’s Report, we
have established a cross-industry group to spearhead a code of practice for the
provision of product information and how that is marketed.
"In addition,
we will continue our work with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local
Government within the Industry Response Group to identify and develop specific
competency frameworks and accreditation pathways, reflecting the work set out
in Dame Judith’s Review.
“The implementation
plan from government is key to the UK construction industry developing a more
comprehensive approach towards competence, putting the right people at the
heart of decision-making for building safety.
"The work between government and
the Construction Products Association to reach this point will continue, and we
are pleased this has been recognised in the implementation plan by the
Secretary of State for Communities, the Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP.”
