Awareness of Building Safety Act increases across building services sector
Research commissioned by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) highlights increasing awareness of the Building Safety Act and its implications across the building services sector.
According to the survey, conducted by AMA Research for BESA, 88% of respondents demonstrated some awareness of the Act, with nearly one-third reporting they were “fully aware.”
BESA members showed higher awareness levels compared to the broader industry, although understanding of roles and responsibilities under the legislation varied depending on building and project type.
The Building Safety Act, introduced in 2022, aims to enhance compliance and accountability across the construction sector.
However, the survey found only 9% of respondents reported making significant changes to align with the legislation.
Mixed impact of legislation on businesses
The research revealed a diverse range of perspectives on the Act’s impact.
While 65% of respondents stated the legislation had been “neither a positive nor a negative factor,” 27% described its effect as positive, and 9% reported negative consequences.
Contractors highlighted compliance challenges and the need for further collaboration with the Building Safety Regulator to meet legislative requirements.
Many organisations also identified a lack of training as a key obstacle to embedding the changes necessary for improving safety standards.
Awareness higher in large firms and high-rise projects
The survey noted higher awareness levels among professionals working on high-rise buildings, new construction projects, and major refurbishments.
Larger firms, in terms of turnover and workforce size, were more likely to demonstrate understanding of the Act compared to smaller organisations.
Rachel Davidson, director of specialist knowledge at BESA, commented: “There is a general perception that the legislation is having a positive impact by driving culture change.
“However, the pace of change is too slow, and there is much work to be done to shift the industry’s focus from speed and cost to quality.”
Training gaps and cultural shifts remain key challenges
BESA emphasised the importance of industry-wide cultural shifts and access to appropriate training.
Davidson highlighted efforts by some firms to use the Act as a framework for improving employee competencies but noted these practices were not widespread.
BESA’s chief executive officer, David Frise, underscored the importance of quality and competence within the sector.
He said: “Changing the mindset of a whole industry to focus on quality rather than price, and ensuring everyone understands their role and responsibilities under the Act, is the only way forward.”
Awareness of Building Safety Act rises among building services professionals: Summary
A BESA-commissioned survey conducted by AMA Research revealed that 88% of respondents in the building services sector are aware of the Building Safety Act, with higher awareness reported among BESA members.
However, understanding of the Act’s requirements varies significantly by project type and company size.
While 65% of contractors reported the Act had a neutral impact, 27% saw positive outcomes, and 9% noted negative effects.
Challenges include compliance, training gaps, and the slow pace of cultural change within the sector.
The findings also highlighted disparities in awareness, with professionals in large organisations and those working on high-rise projects being more informed about the Act.
Industry leaders emphasised the need for quality-focused practices and increased training to meet legislative requirements effectively.