Scotland outlines Grenfell inquiry response and safety reform plans

by Breaking NewsConstructionHealth and SafetySafety

Grenfell inquiry response drives building safety reform in Scotland

The Scottish Government’s Local Government and Housing Directorate and Cladding Remediation Directorate has published detailed plans to implement recommendations from the Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 Report.

The update follows a ministerial working group meeting held on 2 April 2025, where officials, fire service representatives and built environment professionals reviewed the progress and next steps of Scotland’s response.

According to the directorate, the implementation phase will extend to 2030 and include legislative reform, new competency frameworks, and closer coordination with the UK Government on reserved matters.

Stakeholders raise concerns on industry culture and competency

Chris Ashurst, Chair of the High Rise Scotland Action Group, said the Grenfell Inquiry revealed “a staggering level of deceit” and raised concerns that many in the construction sector had not adapted their behaviour since the tragedy.

Ashurst said: “While Scotland’s response recognises these behaviours there is a need for a sea change by developers and others in industry.”

Hywel Davies of the Chartered Association of Building Engineers supported the report and called for continued focus on high-risk occupants and evacuation planning, especially for disabled individuals, older people and those with infants.

He raised concerns around the complexity of implementing a single regulator, noting issues with product certification and the lack of control over CE-marked goods following Brexit.

Calls for stronger regulation of fire engineering profession

Professor Luke Bisby of the University of Edinburgh said the failings at Grenfell were systemic rather than the result of any one individual.

He highlighted the need for licensing of fire engineers, citing Inquiry recommendation 15, and questioned why the Structural Engineers Registration Scheme was not referenced as a potential model.

Bisby added: “Without a robust definition of a fire engineer, a proper system of recognising who meets that definition, and a mandate for the appointment of those persons… any one of these has limited value.”

Peter Drummond of RIAS echoed these views and said true cultural change would take “10 – 20 years for proper implementation.”

He expressed concern over technical de-skilling and repeated appointments of unqualified contractors, urging clarity around the independence of Compliance Plan Managers.

SFRS and other agencies commit to collaborative delivery

Chris Getty of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service stated that SFRS supported the response and highlighted a need for fire risk assessor training, especially for high-rise buildings now included in the Single Building Assessment process.

Jon Henderson, Director of SFRS, said: “SFRS is a learning organisation and will continue to develop and work with partners to support change.”

Scott McKenzie of Local Authority Building Standards Scotland confirmed LABSS’s commitment to implementing recommendations. He noted the need for additional resources for local authority trading standards to address unregulated construction products.

COSLA, NHSAssure and the Building Standards Division also voiced support, with NHSAssure confirming the issuance of updated internal guidance for hospital fire risk assessments.

Government sets 2030 as timeline for regulatory overhaul

According to the Scottish Government, implementation of recommendations will take until 2030 to complete, with work prioritised in areas where devolved authority applies.

Stephen Garvin of the Building Standards Division presented a delivery plan that includes a review of building regulations, development of new competency requirements, and legislative changes to support roles like the Compliance Plan Manager.

A call for evidence on Section 2 (Fire) is scheduled to begin this year, with consultations and implementation following over several years.

The government confirmed that issues related to funding of local authority verification teams are under review.

The Construction Quality Improvement Collaborative, Construction Leadership Forum, and Skills Working Group will support broader cultural and competency reform.

Scotland outlines Grenfell inquiry response and safety reform plans: Summary

The Scottish Government has published a plan to implement Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations.

The response was discussed at a Ministerial Working Group meeting on 2 April 2025.

Stakeholders including SFRS, RIAS, NHSAssure, and LABSS participated.

Chris Ashurst of HRSAG warned of continued unsafe practices by developers.

Hywel Davies of CABE raised concerns about evacuation planning and regulation.

Professor Luke Bisby of the University of Edinburgh called for fire engineer licensing.

Peter Drummond of RIAS said reform would require decades of effort.

SFRS confirmed work is ongoing on engagement, assessments, and home safety visits.

LABSS highlighted challenges from unregulated construction products.

The Scottish Government will work with UKG on reserved matters.

A call for evidence on Section 2 (Fire) is expected to begin in 2025.

The plan includes legislative reform and new competency frameworks.

Implementation is expected to run until 2030.

Funding issues for verification teams are under review.

Training partnerships with higher education institutions are being explored.

The role of Compliance Plan Manager will be reviewed to ensure independence.

MWG meetings will increase to four per year with revised remit and membership.

Belgium evaluates fire risk of cladding as retrofitting increases

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Retrofitting drives cladding installations across Belgium

The Brussels Times has reported that rising demand for energy-efficient home upgrades in Belgium has led to a surge in the use of external wall cladding, particularly systems based on expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation.

According to the publication, regional incentives and renovation grants have encouraged homeowners to insulate ageing masonry façades by applying External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems (ETICS), with EPS currently accounting for the majority of installations.

While ETICS can improve thermal performance and help achieve national climate goals, Belgian authorities and fire experts continue to assess the associated fire risks, especially where EPS is used in multi-storey buildings.

EPS cladding and European fire safety debate

The Brussels Times stated that EPS, although affordable and widely used, is rated “E” in the Euroclass fire system due to its combustibility.

The system’s popularity has grown rapidly across Europe, with over 330 million square metres of ETICS reportedly installed in 2020 alone, based on data shared at a recent industry forum.

The publication noted that, despite encapsulation and flame-retardant additives improving overall system safety, the core material still presents fire spread risks when breached or improperly installed.

Grenfell legacy shapes fire safety regulation in Belgium

According to The Brussels Times, the Grenfell Tower fire in London in 2017 continues to influence policy across Europe, including in Belgium.

The report explained that Grenfell’s ACM panels were not the same as EPS, but the tragedy raised awareness of how combustible cladding can fuel vertical fire spread.

In response, Belgium revised its national fire safety regulations in 2022, with new guidance from the High Council for Fire and Explosion Safety introducing stricter limitations on the use of EPS in taller or vulnerable buildings.

Installation standards and legal obligations for homeowners

The Brussels Times reported that current Belgian law permits EPS-based ETICS systems under specific conditions, with non-combustible fire barriers required in multi-storey buildings.

It added that façade renovations involving cladding in Brussels require a permit, and the local fire brigade can impose material standards based on location, height or building type.

The report advised homeowners to choose certified contractors and check that materials and installation methods meet fire safety and technical guidance issued by system suppliers and regulators.

Belgium evaluates fire risk of cladding as retrofitting increases: Summary

The Brussels Times has reported that cladding installations are increasing in Belgium due to energy efficiency incentives.

Many homeowners are using External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems (ETICS) with EPS insulation to upgrade older buildings.

EPS is lightweight and affordable but has a Euroclass fire rating of “E”.

When properly installed, ETICS can achieve better fire performance.

Fire safety concerns have been raised due to the combustibility of EPS.

Belgium revised national fire rules in 2022 following the Grenfell Tower fire.

EPS is now discouraged or restricted in high-rise or sensitive buildings.

Brussels requires permits for façade renovations and may enforce stricter material rules.

Fire barriers and correct sealing are mandatory for EPS use in multi-storey buildings.

Authorities recommend using certified installers and high-rated fire-resistant materials.

‘Marking its own homework’: Independent oversight proposed for Grenfell inquiry implementation

by Breaking NewsConstructionSafety

Committee raises concerns over Government’s response to fire safety reform

The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee has called on the UK Government to introduce an independent national oversight mechanism for monitoring how it implements the Grenfell Tower inquiry recommendations.

According to the Housing Committee, the Government should not be “marking its own homework” when responding to public inquiry findings, including those from Grenfell, Hillsborough and the infected blood scandal.

The call was made in a letter to Secretary of State Angela Rayner and Minister for Building Safety Alex Norris, published on 22 May 2025.

Recommendation made ahead of Grenfell fire anniversary

The Housing Committee’s letter comes one month before the eighth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire.

It urged the Government to embed the oversight function within the proposed ‘Hillsborough Law’ and apply it to all future public inquiry recommendations.

The Committee stated this approach could help avoid repeated state-related failures, referencing historical disasters where recommendations were not fully acted on.

The Committee reached this conclusion following a short inquiry into how the Government is responding to the recommendations in the Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 report.

Gaps identified in engagement, building control and fire safety

The Committee’s correspondence raised concerns about several aspects of current fire safety reform.

It pointed to delays in building safety sign-off, limitations in building control capacity, and a lack of clarity around the Building Safety Regulator’s remit.

It also addressed fire and rescue service resourcing, the application of Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs), and the future of the Building Safety Levy.

The Committee stated that engagement with residents, particularly those affected by Grenfell, remains inadequate and must be improved.

Chair calls for Government accountability and inclusion

Committee Chair Florence Eshalomi said: “It’s right that the Government have accepted all the recommendations from a Phase 2 report that outlined deep failings that led to the Grenfell disaster.

“But how can the loved ones of the Grenfell victims be asked to trust the Government to mark their own homework when they have spent nearly eight years fighting for answers as to why people were denied the most basic level of safety?

“That’s why as a Committee we strongly endorse calls for an independent mechanism to hold Government to account on implementing the Phase 2 recommendations.”

Florence Eshalomi added: “Unfortunately, it’s clear that there are still groups, particularly those from minority ethnic backgrounds, who feel that they have not been able to fully contribute to these processes.

“Before making any future decisions as part of its management of the Grenfell site, the Government must take steps to address these issues, including by ensuring they have up-to-date contact details of those affected by the fire and that everyone on this list is contacted and their input sought.”

She continued: “The Grenfell fire highlighted the toxic stigma too often faced by those living in social housing, where resident concerns were cruelly dismissed, neglected and ignored.

“As a Committee, we are determined to shine a light on this issue and to hold the Government to account for their role in addressing the systematic failings in building safety, product standards and testing, and fire safety exposed by the tragedy at Grenfell.

“Never again must people be left without such basic levels of safety in their own home.”

Fire safety in care homes highlighted as ongoing concern

The letter also addressed fire risk in the UK’s care sector.

The Committee said it was concerned by London Fire Brigade Commissioner Andy Roe’s remarks that the safety of existing care homes “keeps me awake at night.”

The Housing Committee questioned why the Government has opted to mandate sprinklers only in new care homes and not in existing facilities.

It urged an immediate review of that decision and warned that current fire safety policies in the sector may not go far enough to protect vulnerable residents.

Independent oversight proposed for Grenfell inquiry implementation: Summary

The Housing Committee has written to Secretary of State Angela Rayner and Minister Alex Norris calling for an independent oversight mechanism.

The letter was published on 22 May 2025.

It recommended including this mechanism in the proposed Hillsborough Law.

The Committee stated this could apply to all public inquiry recommendations, including those from the Grenfell Tower inquiry.

It warned that without oversight, future governments could repeat past mistakes.

Concerns were raised about delays in building safety sign-offs.

The letter also cited gaps in fire service resources and building control capacity.

It addressed poor engagement with affected Grenfell residents.

Committee Chair Florence Eshalomi said the Government cannot be trusted to monitor its own performance.

She said minority ethnic groups feel excluded from the process.

The Committee called for up-to-date contact details for affected individuals.

The letter raised concerns about fire safety in existing care homes.

It referenced comments from London Fire Brigade Commissioner Andy Roe.

The Committee urged the Government to reconsider its decision on sprinkler mandates.

Communication in structural safety: CROSS-AUS issues new guidance

by CommunicationsConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Construction safety gaps outlined in Australia newsletter

CROSS (Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures) has published its latest CROSS-AUS newsletter, which outlines four new Safety Reports focused on structural safety issues in Australia.

According to CROSS, the reports emphasise that communication failures during design, construction, and later modifications of buildings are contributing to recurring structural safety problems.

The newsletter was written by David Donnan, Director of CROSS-AUS.

CROSS stated that designers should account for how structures are built, not just how they perform once complete.

It added that relying on general notes about ‘temporary works by others’ can result in safety risks that are not adequately managed on site.

Temporary works guidance and industry resources

The newsletter highlights the role of temporary works and their associated risks if not properly designed or communicated.

It noted that design professionals frequently separate permanent structure safety from temporary construction phases, despite both requiring oversight.

To support improved practice, CROSS pointed to the work of the Temporary Works Forum in the UK, established in 2010 after several failures.

It added that similar bodies now operate in Australia and New Zealand to offer region-specific guidance.

CROSS also referenced publications from the Institution of Structural Engineers, including the “Temporary Works Toolkit”, which provides structural engineers with best practice documents for temporary works integration.

Issues with proprietary systems and coordination

Two of the reports addressed the use of proprietary flooring systems. CROSS explained that while these systems use precast planks, the design configurations vary, and safe use depends heavily on manufacturer documentation and adherence to erection procedures.

The organisation stated that system stability in temporary phases must be assessed carefully, especially where unbalanced or eccentric loads are expected before full structural interaction is achieved.

Another report outlined the challenges when separate components of a single structure are designed by different engineers.

CROSS noted that failure to understand or communicate component limitations can affect the structure’s overall serviceability and performance.

Structural modifications and site inspections

A further report described the long-term safety implications of modifying and reusing structures.

According to CROSS, documentation of structural changes is essential for understanding how original and new load paths interact.

The report highlighted that load assumptions and building performance requirements can evolve over time.

Without proper records, the risk of instability increases during later modifications or repurposing.

CROSS concluded by stressing the importance of structural engineers being involved during construction.

It advised that on-site inspections, particularly at key stages, can resolve potential misinterpretations early and support safer outcomes.

Communication in structural safety: CROSS-AUS issues new guidance: Summary

CROSS has published a new structural safety newsletter covering four safety reports in Australia.

The newsletter was authored by CROSS-AUS Director David Donnan.

The publication states that poor communication during design and construction contributes to safety risks.

CROSS warned that temporary works are often overlooked or left to others without clear guidance.

It highlighted the Temporary Works Forum and engineering toolkits as helpful resources.

Reports also raised concerns about improper use of proprietary flooring systems.

CROSS noted that understanding design assumptions across different teams is essential.

Structural modifications require detailed documentation to avoid future instability.

CROSS encouraged regular on-site inspections by designers during key construction phases.

Fusion21 names suppliers to £800m UK building safety framework

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Framework launched to support building compliance in public sector

Fusion21 has reported the appointment of 145 suppliers to its national Building Safety and Compliance Framework in the United Kingdom.

The four-year framework is valued at up to £800 million and was developed under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.

Fusion21 stated that 81% of awarded suppliers are small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The framework is designed to help public sector organisations manage building safety obligations and demonstrate compliance under the Building Safety Act 2022.

According to Fusion21, the new framework includes a dedicated lot for sprinkler and mist systems.

It comprises twelve separate service areas covering asbestos management, legionella control, fire safety, passive and active fire protection, electronic security, and related areas.

Peter Francis, Group Executive Director (Operations) at Fusion21, said: “Our members continue to invest heavily to ensure the buildings they manage are safe.”

He continued: “With the introduction of the Building Safety Act (BSA 2022), the responsibility to ensure building compliance has grown, and we’re delighted to be able to continue supporting our members with this framework renewal as part of our ‘big six’ offer.”

Suppliers awarded across twelve building safety service lots

Fusion21 confirmed that the framework is divided into twelve lots.

These include fire risk assessments, asbestos removal, legionella consultancy, passive fire protection and warden call systems.

The organisation explained that feedback from stakeholders informed the framework design.

Peter Francis added: “Having listened to member and supplier feedback, we’ve created a new generation of the Building Safety and Compliance Framework, suitable for all building types across the public sector.”

He stated: “Working with a team of technical procurement experts and pre-qualified suppliers, our members will benefit from a fast route to market and flexible call-off options.”

SMEs form majority of appointed suppliers

Fusion21 stated that 81% of the successful suppliers are SMEs.

The organisation explained that this reflects a commitment to supporting diverse supplier bases.

It also said that this structure helps drive economic value within communities.

Francis said: “As with all Fusion21 frameworks, this latest framework enables our members to deliver social value they can see in communities, aligned with their organisational priorities.”

The company confirmed that the suppliers will provide both regional and national coverage.

Supplier list includes multidisciplinary and specialist firms

Fusion21 released the full list of companies appointed to the framework.

The suppliers include ABCA Systems Limited, BB7 Fire Limited, Harmony Fire Limited, Checkmate Fire Solutions Limited, Ventro Ltd, and Trail Group Limited.

Others include Tunstall Healthcare (UK) Limited, Ridge and Partners LLP, and Triangle Fire Systems Limited.

The selected firms represent a range of consultancy, inspection, engineering, and environmental service providers.

Fusion21 explained that all firms were pre-qualified to meet compliance standards and support building safety objectives under the framework.

Fusion21 appoints suppliers to £800m UK building safety framework: Summary

Fusion21 has appointed 145 suppliers to its national Building Safety and Compliance Framework.

The framework is worth up to £800 million over four years.

It was procured under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.

Fusion21 reported that 81% of the awarded suppliers are SMEs.

The framework is designed to support public sector organisations in the United Kingdom.

It is split into twelve lots covering asbestos, legionella, fire safety, and electronic systems.

Fusion21 added a dedicated lot for sprinkler and mist systems.

The organisation stated that supplier and member feedback informed the framework’s design.

Fusion21 said the framework supports fast procurement and flexible delivery.

The organisation stated that the suppliers will provide national and regional services.

Fusion21 explained that the framework aligns with Building Safety Act 2022 obligations.

It said the framework supports the delivery of community-based social value.

Fusion21 published a list of all appointed suppliers.

Mayor and Government launch joint board to address London’s cladding crisis

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveSafety

New board established to accelerate cladding remediation in London

The office of the Mayor of London has reported that a new Joint Remediation Partnership Board has been created to speed up the removal of unsafe cladding on residential buildings above 11 metres across the capital.

The board met for the first time on 6 May 2025 and is chaired jointly by Deputy Mayor of London for Housing Tom Copley and Minister for Building Safety and Fire Alex Norris.

The new group brings together City Hall, the Government, the London Fire Brigade, London Councils, housing providers and regulatory bodies.

It has been formed in response to what the office of the Mayor described as the scale of the building safety challenge in London, with more than 1,500 buildings in remediation programmes yet to begin works.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This is a significant step forward in speeding up the removal of dangerous cladding in London, which had been far too slow under the previous Government.

“Everyone deserves the right to live in a safe home – a right denied to the residents of Grenfell Tower.

“I will not stop until we can say with confidence that the failings which led to this disaster will never be repeated.

“I will continue to work hand-in-hand with the Government, London Councils, the London Fire Brigade and the sector to take swift action to remove dangerous cladding on buildings as we continue to build a safer London for everyone.”

Strategy to meet 2029 national remediation target

The office of the Mayor stated that the board will establish a formal plan to align national, regional and local enforcement efforts.

Its purpose is to support the Government’s goal that, by the end of 2029, all residential buildings over 11 metres with unsafe cladding across the UK will either be remediated, scheduled for completion, or subject to enforcement penalties.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities reported that London currently has four times the national average of high-rise homes, and over 1,500 buildings in Government remediation programmes have not yet started work on site.

Building and Fire Safety Minister Alex Norris said: “The pace of remediation has been far too slow and nearly eight years on from the Grenfell Fire tragedy far too many people are living in buildings with unsafe cladding.

“This problem is particularly acute in London, which is why I’m pleased to be working with the Deputy Mayor for London and the Greater London Authority to accelerate the pace of remediation work in London, and ensure residents feel safe and secure in their homes.

“Alongside the London Fire Brigade, London Councils and regulators, we are bringing renewed vigour to tackling long-overdue issues with unsafe cladding in the capital.”

Calls for resources and coordination from borough councils

London Councils has welcomed the creation of the new board but highlighted that local authorities face funding constraints.

Cllr Grace Williams, London Councils’ Executive Member for Housing & Regeneration, said: “Boroughs’ overriding priority is to ensure every Londoner is safe – and feels safe – in their home.

“Faster progress must be made in removing unsafe cladding and it is vital this coalition of key partners help bring together our respective powers, resources and influence to accelerate remediation.

“It is also pivotal that boroughs and our partners have sufficient resources to enforce standards.

“There is currently a massive squeeze on London’s housing budgets, which makes it harder to modernise buildings and address safety concerns, as well as holding us back from building the new housing we desperately need.”

London Fire Brigade supports partnership initiative

The London Fire Brigade has stated that the new partnership will help improve building safety across the capital.

Charlie Pugsley, Deputy Commissioner and Director of Prevention, Protection, and Operational Policy at London Fire Brigade, said: “The creation of the Joint Remediation Partnership Board, and continued support from the Mayor of London, will be key in helping to address the ongoing challenges being faced across London’s built environment.

“We support this action being taken to drive forward the remediation required across London’s high and medium rise residential properties.

“It is unacceptable that leaseholders and residents continue to face such uncertainty and stress, and in many cases, a significant financial burden, due to these buildings with dangerous cladding still not being remediated.

“Those responsible for residential buildings have a legal obligation and we will continue to work with all stakeholders to identify and address the risks to keep Londoners safe.”

Campaigners urge intervention on tower block plans in Bromley

The Fire Brigades Union and building safety campaign groups have written to Sadiq Khan and Bromley Council leader Colin Smith calling for construction of a proposed residential tower block in Penge to be halted.

According to the Fire Brigades Union, the planned building is 17.7 metres tall – 30 centimetres below the 18-metre threshold that triggers a requirement for two staircases under current regulations.

The London Fire Brigade lodged a nine-point objection, arguing that reducing the height to avoid a second staircase is “not ethically justified”.

Fire Brigades Union warns reduced height building could risk lives

Fire Brigades Union General Secretary Steve Wright said the development undermines post-Grenfell safety improvements.

He said: “This is an attempt to cut corners and get around the building safety regulations introduced to avoid a repeat of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

“If the development goes ahead in its current form, residents of this property will only have one staircase which they can use to evacuate.

“This could cost lives.

“It’s vital that Sadiq Khan uses his powers to block this attempt to circumvent the safety improvements that were introduced in the wake of the Grenfell fire.”

Organisations that have signed the letter include Justice for Grenfell, End Our Cladding Scandal, Tower Blocks UK, UK Cladding Action, ACORN, the London Renters’ Union and the Penge Preservation Society.

Mayor and Government launch joint board to address London’s cladding crisis: Summary

The office of the Mayor of London has reported that a new Joint Remediation Partnership Board has been established.

The board is co-chaired by Deputy Mayor for Housing Tom Copley and Minister for Building Safety and Fire Alex Norris.

It brings together representatives from City Hall, the Government, London Councils, housing associations, the London Fire Brigade and regulatory bodies.

The board will set a strategy to speed up the removal of unsafe cladding from residential buildings in London over 11 metres in height.

The strategy supports the national target to remediate such buildings by the end of 2029 or issue enforcement penalties.

More than 1,500 buildings in London’s remediation programme have not yet started on site.

The London Fire Brigade stated that continued inaction places residents under stress and financial strain.

London Councils said boroughs need greater resources to deliver building safety enforcement and remediation.

The Fire Brigades Union has written to the Mayor and Bromley Council opposing a 17.7 metre tower block that avoids new staircase rules.

The FBU warned that a single-staircase building of that height could endanger residents during an evacuation.

Increased UK demand for Category 3 Control fire performance cables

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPassive

Tougher UK legislation linked to rising cable demand

AEI Cables has reported an increase in demand for Category 3 Control fire performance cables following recent changes to legislation in the United Kingdom.

According to the company, meeting this demand requires effective coordination between manufacturers and distributors.

AEI Cables explained that these cables are critical for powering safety systems such as smoke and heat extraction, which support firefighting operations and occupant evacuation.

AEI Cables calls for industry-wide coordination

Stuart Dover, general manager at AEI Cables, said: “We have seen a rise in the demand for these cables but working together with our distributors we are satisfying our customer needs.

“Together, we can meet the increase in requirements which ultimately make sense for the safety of people and property.

“We offer a comprehensive range of Category 3 Control backed up with our technical support and guidance for these specific uses.”

The company noted that guidance applies to systems including evacuation alarms for disabled residents in care homes, emergency voice communications and voice alarm systems across a range of public and commercial buildings.

These include high-rise buildings, office facilities, hospitals, shopping centres and stadiums.

Standards compliance emphasised under BS8519

AEI Cables stated that it has been promoting the revised Code of Practice under British Standard BS8519:2020 for the selection and installation of Category 3 Control fire performance cables.

It said the revised guidance is designed to reduce the release of harmful smoke, toxic gases and the spread of flame during a fire.

The company noted that its Firetec Enhanced cables are approved and certified by LPCB for both Category 2 and Category 3 Control under BS8519 Annex B.

BS8519 outlines six categories of fire-resistant cables, with three relating to power cables and three to control cables.

Each of the six categories corresponds to a survival time of either 30, 60 or 120 minutes.

AEI Cables supplies certified products to UK and international standards

AEI Cables confirmed that its products are approved by independent bodies including BASEC and LPCB.

The company also holds approvals from the Ministry of Defence, Network Rail, Lloyd’s Register and London Underground.

It added that it manufactures in line with international specifications for supply globally.

Increased UK demand for Category 3 Control fire performance cables: Summary

AEI Cables has reported increased demand for Category 3 Control fire performance cables in the UK.

The company attributed the rise to tougher legislation related to life safety systems.

It stated that collaboration between manufacturers and distributors is essential to meet customer requirements.

AEI Cables said the cables are used in critical systems such as smoke extraction and emergency alarms.

General manager Stuart Dover said the company is meeting this demand in partnership with its distributors.

The company highlighted that BS8519:2020 provides the relevant Code of Practice.

Firetec Enhanced cabling is certified by LPCB for Category 2 and Category 3 Control applications.

BS8519 includes six cable categories based on power or control use and survival time.

AEI Cables products are independently certified by BASEC and LPCB.

It also holds UK-based approvals from bodies including Network Rail and London Underground.

AEI Cables manufactures to international standards for global supply.

Budget reform and skills development in UK construction

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Payment performance and pre-qualification in focus as Build UK marks 10 years

Build UK’s chief executive has said that payment performance and industry standards have improved during the trade body’s first decade.

According to the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), Suzannah Nichol made the comments during a recent edition of the Behind the Built Environment podcast, hosted by BESA chief executive David Frise.

The podcast episode covered progress on average payment times, pre-qualification schemes, and construction competence since Build UK was launched in 2015.

Payment terms shorten and transparency improves

The Building Engineering Services Association reported that Build UK contractor members have reduced average payment terms from 45 days to 29 since benchmarking began.

Suzannah Nichol said: “We improved payment metrics…when we started benchmarking them. Transparency is key, when you put things in a league table, it starts to drive different behaviours.”

Nichol added that government enforcement of payment performance is increasing. Under current requirements, contractors must now pay 95% of invoices within 60 days to continue receiving public sector contracts.

She noted a shift in the tone of payment discussions since Build UK was founded: “They were very adversarial and now they’re much less combative.”

Retentions and refusal to work with late payers

According to the podcast, new reporting on retentions will soon be introduced. Companies will be required to disclose how much they are withholding.

Nichol said: “Then we’ll see where the money is sticking.”

She encouraged businesses to stop working with late payers: “I know it’s brave to say I’m not going to work for you, but at some point that is a business decision you make to work for somebody who is going to pay you or isn’t going to pay you. And we make it easy because we show you exactly what their payment terms are.”

Nichol told the podcast that BESA members “had more power to their elbow” than they may realise.

Pre-qualification scheme simplifies access

Nichol said Build UK introduced the Common Assessment Standard (CAS) to simplify pre-qualification, replacing 21 different schemes used in 2015.

She explained this has helped contractors prepare for compliance under the Building Safety Act.

She acknowledged however that many contractors still face challenges understanding their duties under the new legislation.

Nichol said: “I’m used to reading legislation, I understand hopefully quite a bit of this, and it [still] hurts my brain just trying to understand what the requirements are, what that looks like, how do you deliver it?”

She questioned the impact of long technical documents on the industry: “Why we think writing 90-page reports and giving [industry members] complicated legislation is going to change behaviour I’ve honestly got no idea.”

Addressing skills shortages through mentoring and training

Nichol told the podcast that skills development was a key area of work during Build UK’s first ten years.

She highlighted the ‘Open Doors’ programme as one of its top achievements.

She said: “We have so many jobs in construction that we find it difficult to explain in a 30-minute careers talk. And we know from our research that 88% of our visitors [to a site opened up to school, college and community groups] would then consider a career in construction.”

Nichol added that older workers should be supported to transition into teaching roles.

She said: “They’ve got to be the best people to inspire that next generation…by teaching the skills they have and talking about all the best parts of their work.”

According to BESA, its new Skills Legacy programme is intended to help address this issue.

The trade body said the scheme will train experienced engineers to become assessors, building safety auditors, and trainers.

The programme aims to place 100 engineers, with The Manly Trust funding the first 50 positions.

Budget reform and skills development in UK construction: Summary

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has published a podcast interview with Build UK chief executive Suzannah Nichol.

Nichol said Build UK members had improved average payment times from 45 to 29 days.

She said contractors must now pay 95% of invoices within 60 days or lose access to public sector contracts.

Nichol said businesses would soon have to report on retention payments.

She urged contractors to stop working with late-paying clients.

Build UK introduced the Common Assessment Standard to reduce complexity in pre-qualification.

Nichol said the standard helps firms meet requirements under the Building Safety Act.

She said the complexity of safety legislation made compliance harder.

Nichol raised concern about the average reading age in the construction workforce.

She said Build UK’s ‘Open Doors’ initiative had encouraged more young people into the industry.

BESA’s new Skills Legacy programme will train older engineers to become assessors and trainers.

The Manly Trust is funding the initial phase of this scheme.

NEBOSH construction qualification backed by 90% of learners in latest survey

by ConstructionFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafetyTraining

Construction sector saw 51 deaths in Great Britain in 2023/4

A recent NEBOSH survey has reported that 90% of learners would recommend its Health and Safety Management for Construction qualification.

The survey findings relate to one of the highest-risk sectors in the UK, with the Health and Safety Executive reporting 51 construction-related fatalities in Great Britain during the 2023/4 period. This represents 37% of all workplace deaths in that year.

The qualification is available in two versions: a UK variant aligned with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations and an international version based on International Labour Organization guidance.

Learners report improved hazard identification

NEBOSH said the majority of respondents indicated the training helped them improve their ability to recognise and assess hazards on construction sites.

In the 2024 survey, 94% of UK respondents and 100% of international respondents said their ability to identify risks had improved after completing the course.

The organisation explained that the training aims to help learners develop systems of work, take part in incident investigations, and manage contractor relationships more effectively.

Qualification revised for 2025 to reflect industry feedback

According to NEBOSH, the qualification has been updated for 2025 following learner input and guidance from construction safety professionals.

The refreshed syllabus includes new topics such as fatigue and inspectors’ enforcement powers, which the organisation said were included to reflect ongoing safety challenges in the sector.

NEBOSH stated that learners are also trained to influence safety culture and challenge unsafe behaviours in the workplace.

UK course recognised by national construction safety scheme

NEBOSH confirmed that the UK version of the qualification remains recognised by the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS).

It noted that those who complete the course are eligible to apply for the CSCS Academically Qualified Person card.

The qualification is categorised as a Level 7 under the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework.

Learners describe training as relevant and in-depth

Michael Smith, Response Supervisor – Housing Repairs for South Holland District Council, said: “I found the whole course extremely interesting; the study and work-based scenarios were good and worthwhile.

“I thought the content of the course was pitched correctly, and the syllabus covered it [the topic] in great depth.

“Having gained the qualification, I am now in a position where I feel that I can make a positive impact within the workplace.”

NEBOSH construction qualification backed by 90% of learners in latest survey: Summary

NEBOSH has reported that nine in ten learners would recommend its Health and Safety Management for Construction qualification.

The 2023/4 period saw 51 fatalities in the UK construction sector, according to the Health and Safety Executive.

The qualification is available in UK and international formats.

It is aligned with UK CDM regulations and ILO guidance respectively.

NEBOSH stated that the course helps learners identify hazards, advise on legislation, and manage contractors.

The 2025 version includes updates on fatigue and inspectors’ powers.

100% of international and 94% of UK learners said their ability to identify risks improved.

CSCS recognises the qualification for its Academically Qualified Person card.

Michael Smith of South Holland District Council described the course content as worthwhile and in-depth.

The qualification is classed as Level 7 in the SCQF framework.

UK Gateway 2 approvals stall as application rejections reach 75%

by ConstructionSafety

High rejection rates raise concerns over UK Gateway 2 application process

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has reported that three-quarters of Gateway 2 submissions for higher-risk buildings are currently being rejected by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR).

The BSR, overseen by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), said most applications are missing key fire and structural safety information, with issues stemming from misunderstanding requirements that have been in place for over a decade.

Tim Galloway, deputy director of the HSE, said: “Too many applicants don’t quite as yet understand what is expected of them.”

Galloway continued: “The missing details are fairly fundamental stuff. They relate to standards that are at least a decade and a half old in terms of what’s intended to be achieved, and that’s quite worrying that applications are not able to show fire safety and not able to show structural safety, which one would have expected.”

Galloway added: “What we have learned, I think, is that there’s more of a need for that investment in upfront design, that thinking to be done by those submitting the applications [happens] earlier, and that’s something that has required more transition for the industry than we’d expected.”

Industry guidance remains unclear as BSR reaffirms regulatory role

The FPA reported that many contractors have criticised the lack of clear guidance on how to meet Gateway 2 requirements.

Galloway said the BSR is cooperating with the Construction Leadership Council to support better guidance but noted the regulator’s role is not to author this material.

He stated: “I want industry to write that guidance, because it will be better than anything I could write.”

Galloway continued: “You need people who have got that deep construction industry experience, who understand the process, understand the right phraseology, understand how the designers and the architects and the other players interact, because they will write it with that in mind.”

Backlog of Gateway 2 approvals slows project timelines

According to data published by the FPA, the BSR has only approved 14 out of 45 Gateway 2 applications and one out of 13 Gateway 3 submissions that were transferred from private firms.

These figures reflect projects previously handled by private building control firms, including AIS Surveyors, which exited the market in 2024.

The HSE acknowledged the backlog and said: “We acknowledge there have been delays to processing approvals for building control applications and we are working to put this right.”

It added: “A backlog of complex in-flight higher risk projects which came into BSR after the collapse of private registered building control approver AIS Surveyors initially drove up processing times.”

BSR reports processing improvements but contractors push for changes

The HSE stated that increased resources have reduced Gateway 2 handling times for complex applications to 16 to 17 weeks, and category B projects to around 10 weeks.

The organisation said: “Outside of the backlog there are a small number of highly-complex ‘in build’ transitional cases which are not yet of a sufficient standard to be approved.”

It added: “We are taking a pragmatic approach to these cases to make sure building work can continue.”

The statement also noted: “We are confident that all the operational contingency measures we’ve put in place, including dedicated support from industry will also allow us to clear the applications in the backlog as we head into the new financial year.”

A construction source cited by the FPA argued that the current Gateway 2 system is causing construction delays and suggested deferring approvals to the final stages of build.

The source said: “The current system isn’t working but we all want to see safe buildings. We take pictures of everything for the Golden Thread so the proof will still be there for the end user and anyone who doesn’t comply with regulations will still be found out.”

UK Gateway 2 approvals stall as application rejections reach 75%: Summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) reported that the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is rejecting 75% of Gateway 2 submissions for higher-risk buildings.

The BSR said most applications are missing essential safety information.

Tim Galloway of the HSE said the failures relate to long-standing design standards.

Galloway stated that better upfront design is needed.

Contractors have said clearer guidance is required to meet Gateway 2 requirements.

The BSR said it is working with the Construction Leadership Council on guidance but expects industry to lead it.

Only 14 out of 45 Gateway 2 applications and one out of 13 Gateway 3 applications transferred from private firms have been approved.

The HSE said the backlog was worsened by the collapse of AIS Surveyors.

It reported that processing times for new applications are now improving.

Complex cases still face delays due to application quality.

Some contractors want Gateway 2 approval moved to later project stages.