Dr. Shaun Lundy, Quality Assurance & Strategy Director, Tetra Consulting
The long-awaited Phase 2 report from the Grenfell Inquiry published today 4th September 2024 will finally initiate the crucial process of holding those responsible accountable for the entirely avoidable loss of life at Grenfell. Whilst we have seen a wave of new legislation, standards, and guidance introduced since the tragedy, progress has been painfully slow. I hope this final report serves as a catalyst to accelerate the necessary changes across the industry, supported by clearer, more robust, and better-enforced legislation. It is essential that this report marks a turning point, ensuring that safety is prioritised and that such a tragedy never happens again.
The report itself is extensive, spanning 1,694 pages over seven volumes, with a 52-page executive summary. It is a challenging read in places, reflecting the complexity of the issues at hand. As a business, we have been diligently working to meet the new requirements introduced by the Building Safety Act and the changes to fire safety legislation recommended in the Phase 1 report. However, it appears that the new Building Safety Regulator is struggling, causing a knock-on effect across the sector. For example, we have written hundreds of safety case reports for clients, many of which have been submitted to the regulator as part of the process for applying for a Building Assessment Certificate (BAC). Despite this process beginning in April, no BACs have been issued, and there has been no feedback from the regulator. Similar delays have occurred with the implementation of the new building control regime. Hopefully, this final report will be a turning point, helping to increase momentum and ensuring that the new Building Safety Regulator is supported and resourced to fulfil its role. If not, confidence in the new building safety regime could be severely undermined.
The report includes numerous recommendations, and while these are just a few that stand out, they are indicative of the broader changes needed across the industry.
Government’s Complacency Toward Fire Safety
The report highlights a troubling history of complacency and defensiveness within government departments towards safety. After the Lakanal House fire, the coroner’s recommendations to review Approved Document B were not given the urgency they required. Similarly, concerns about the fire risks of cladding raised by the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Fire Safety were met with a dismissive attitude by officials and some ministers. The government’s deregulatory agenda focussed on health, safety and fire regulation often took precedence, leading to the neglect of critical safety measures.
Need for Fresh Perspectives in Building Regulations
The report advocates for a fresh approach to reviewing and revising Building Regulations, emphasising that safety should be the primary consideration. The inclusion of representatives from the academic community, alongside industry professionals, is recommended to bring new insights and ensure regulations are driven by expertise and competence.
Low Levels of Competence in the Construction Industry
The inquiry found that levels of competence among contractors, designers, and building control officers were generally low. Many treated the statutory guidance as definitive legal requirements, a practice that poses risks. The report calls for revised guidance to clearly state that compliance with the guidance does not guarantee compliance with Building Regulations.
Mandatory Accreditation for Fire Risk Assessors
The report recommends establishing a system of mandatory accreditation for fire risk assessors to ensure the competence of those offering their services. This would involve setting standards for qualification, continuing professional development, and other necessary measures to maintain high standards in fire risk assessment.
Recognition and Regulation of Fire Engineers
The inquiry emphasises the importance of fire engineers in ensuring building safety. It recommends that the profession be formally recognised and regulated by law, with an independent body to oversee the profession’s standards and practices. Additionally, increasing the number of places on high-quality Masters level courses in fire engineering is suggested to build a robust pipeline of qualified professionals.
Mandatory Fire Safety Strategies
One of the critical recommendations from the report is the requirement for a comprehensive fire safety strategy for all higher-risk buildings. The Grenfell Tower refurbishment failed to complete a proper fire safety strategy, leaving the building in a dangerous condition upon completion. The report advocates for making it a statutory requirement that a fire safety strategy, produced by a registered fire engineer, be submitted with building control applications (at Gateway 2) for the construction or refurbishment of any higher-risk building. This strategy should be reviewed and re-submitted at the completion stage (Gateway 3). Such strategies must take into account the needs of vulnerable people, including the additional time they may require to evacuate or reach a place of safety, and any additional facilities necessary to ensure their safety.
A Broader Definition of Higher-Risk Buildings
The current definition of “higher-risk” buildings based solely on height is deemed arbitrary. The report suggests that factors such as the building’s use and the presence of vulnerable individuals should also be considered, ensuring that safety measures adequately reflect the specific risks posed by different building types.
Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for Vulnerable Residents
Building on the recommendations from the Phase 1 report, the final report calls for legally mandated Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for all residents who may struggle to evacuate without assistance. Collecting comprehensive information about vulnerable occupants is crucial to ensure their safety during emergencies.
The findings and recommendations of this final report highlight the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in the construction and fire safety sectors. It is crucial that these recommendations are implemented without delay, to prevent another tragedy like Grenfell and to restore public confidence in the safety of residential buildings. Now more than ever, it is essential to prioritise the safety and well-being of all building occupants through rigorous standards, robust enforcement, and a commitment to ongoing improvement.