Latest Grenfell Tower Inquiry report sees unexpected delay in publication

by Featured News

Update on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry has issued an update indicating a delay in the publication of its report, originally scheduled before the next anniversary of the fire.

The delay stems from the complex and extensive process of notifying individuals who may be subject to criticism in the report, as required by rule 13 of the Inquiry Rules.

The inquiry has engaged with approximately 250 people, making the process larger and more intricate than anticipated.

Despite the challenges, the inquiry remains committed to releasing the report as promptly as possible.

The entire team is striving to ensure efficiency, with a pledge to provide a new publication date as soon as a clearer timeline can be established.

Inquiry activities and community engagement

In the wake of concluding hearings for Phase 2, the inquiry continues to publish related documents on its official website.

The document sweep-up process is an ongoing effort to maintain transparency and keep the public informed.

Furthermore, the inquiry held its latest community drop-in session on March 25, 2024, at Bay20 in London.

These sessions serve as a platform for the public to gain insights into the inquiry process and pose questions directly to the inquiry team members.

Disclosure and support details

As of March 2024, the inquiry has disclosed a total of 320,442 documents across two phases.

These documents are part of the inquiry’s commitment to transparency and public understanding of the processes involved.

The inquiry also continues to offer counselling support services through the NHS Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service, providing assistance for emotional well-being to those affected by the hearings and the broader community impacted by the fire.

London Fire Brigade fulfills Grenfell Tower Inquiry phase 1 recommendations, ensuring safety advancements

by Building ManagementFeatured News

Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations fully implemented by LFB

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has successfully completed all 29 recommendations from Phase 1 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Announced 13 March 2024, these improvements encompass changes in firefighter training, upgraded processes for handling major incidents, and the incorporation of advanced technology to enhance firefighting capabilities.

One notable upgrade is the replacement of the high-reach vehicle fleet with new 64-metre Turntable Ladders, now the tallest in Europe.

In addition, new command units equipped with cutting-edge technology have been introduced, enhancing the incident commanders’ response efficiency at the incident ground.

Over 200 people have benefited from escape hoods since 2018, a key protective measure against toxic smoke, with London’s firefighters being among the first in the UK to adopt them.

Enhanced communication and process improvements

The LFB’s communication capabilities have seen significant enhancements with the introduction of modern fire ground radios.

These radios enable effective communication for firefighters, even when wearing helmets and breathing apparatus, inside buildings.

Drones, equipped with live imaging and thermal imagery, are now used to provide vital information to incident commanders, facilitating better tactics for fire management.

They also serve additional functions like providing instructions or light in dark conditions.

Changes in the Brigade’s operations have led to more efficient responses to challenging emergencies.

Control officers now receive advanced training in providing fire survival guidance, backed by software that allows video feeds from incidents to be shared with the public, aiding in better incident management.

Statements from the London Fire Commissioner and Mayor of London

London Fire Commissioner Andy Roe commented on the developments: “We accepted every recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and have been working hard over the past five years to implement changes to the way we operate.

“We are the only organisation to have completed every recommendation directed specifically to them and I am proud of the work that staff have put into this, but I also know that there is still much more to do.

“Fundamental change in large, complex organisations takes time and while our transformation programme is safely on track, we are not finished.

“I’m dedicated to continuing this journey with full commitment so that we can continue to be trusted to serve and protect our capital.”

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan expressed his views: “The Grenfell Tower fire was an appalling tragedy and we will always remember the 72 people who lost their lives.

“The most fitting tribute to the people who died, their loved ones and those who survived is to ensure that nothing like this ever happens again.

“I have been relentless in doing everything I can to ensure the recommendations from Phase 1 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry are implemented in full.

“Following City Hall’s significant investment, the LFB’s new equipment and protocols will help save lives.

“I welcome the significant steps the London Fire Brigade have taken to transform the way in which it responds to incidents, and high-rise building fires in particular.

“But there is more to do, and it is vital that the Government steps up along with housing and building industries to act now and ban combustible materials in external walls no matter their height and provide funding support for those unfairly saddled with large costs to remediate unsafe cladding.

“It’s vital that all possible steps are taken now to prevent another tragedy.”

IFSJ Comment

The completion of all recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 by the London Fire Brigade marks a pivotal moment in enhancing fire safety standards in London.

The LFB’s commitment to this comprehensive overhaul, encompassing technology upgrades, training enhancements, and operational improvements, is commendable.

Continual improvement and adaptation in response to learned lessons are crucial in the realm of fire safety, a fact underscored by the LFB’s efforts following the tragic Grenfell Tower incident.

Firefighters receive £20m settlement over Grenfell Tower tragedy

by Featured News

Settlement reached for firefighters affected by Grenfell Tower fire

The union representing firefighters in the UK has confirmed a High Court settlement of £20m for members impacted by the Grenfell Tower fire.

A total of 114 firefighters, who faced personal injury and trauma from their response to the tragic event on 14 June 2017, were part of the claim.

The legal action focused on personal injury and loss due to alleged negligence and breach of statutory duty during the blaze at the 24-story block of flats in West London.

Thompsons Solicitors, a national law firm, represented the firefighters with support from The Fire Brigades Union (FBU).

The claim targeted several defendants, including Arconic Architectural Products, Celotex, and Rydon Maintenance Limited, companies linked to the combustible cladding and refurbishment of the building’s exterior which contributed to the fire’s rapid spread.

Additional defendants were the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and the London Fire Commissioner.

The background and implications of the settlement

The Grenfell Tower fire remains the deadliest in the UK since World War II, resulting in 72 fatalities and numerous injuries.

It left many residents without homes and sparked a public inquiry set to deliver its final report this year.

This settlement follows an earlier High Court decision, awarding compensation to nearly 900 bereaved, survivors, and residents impacted by the tragedy.

The court specified that these settlements relate solely to civil damages claims, without affecting the ongoing public inquiry or the possibility of future criminal charges.

Union and legal representatives speak out

Matt Wrack, General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, highlighted the broader implications of the Grenfell tragedy, emphasising the systemic failings in building safety and government accountability.

“The aftermath of the Grenfell Tower tragedy is a stark reminder of the systemic failings of building safety and government accountability.

“Firefighters, many of whom have been deeply affected by the horrors they witnessed, continue to advocate for those living in unsafe conditions,” he stated.

Wrack criticised the prioritisation of private profit over public safety and called for governmental action to prevent future disasters and ensure accountability.

Vincent Reynolds from Thompsons Solicitors’ personal injury team, representing the firefighters, reflected on the lasting impact of the Grenfell Tower fire on those who responded.

“The Grenfell Tower fire left an indelible mark on the firefighters who responded to the call.

Many bear the psychological scars of that night, struggling with trauma from the harrowing experience,” he said.

Reynolds expressed hope that the settlement would provide some closure for the firefighters, acknowledging the long-term nature of their injuries.

IFSJ Comment

The £20m settlement awarded to firefighters for their bravery and sacrifices during the Grenfell Tower fire represents a critical acknowledgment of the profound impact such tragedies have on first responders.

Beyond the financial compensation, this settlement highlights the need for comprehensive reforms in building safety and fire response protocols to protect both the public and emergency personnel.

As the public inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire concludes, it is imperative that lessons are learned and implemented to prevent a recurrence of such a devastating event.

The Fire Brigades Union’s commitment to advocating for safer living conditions and accountability is a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and reform in the wake of Grenfell.

Grenfell-linked firm Rydon found with fire safety issues in over half its residential blocks

by Featured NewsSafety

Analysis of Rydon’s residential blocks reveals serious safety concerns

The Guardian has reported that Rydon, the company responsible for installing the cladding on Grenfell Tower, is facing serious fire safety issues in more than half of its residential blocks.

An analysis of government figures shows that out of 25 residential blocks built by Rydon’s development arm, 14 are afflicted with significant safety concerns.

Extensive remediation challenges identified across England’s high-rise buildings

This revelation is part of a larger problem within England’s property sector.

According to the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities accessed by The Guardian, over 1,325 buildings above 11 metres have been deemed unsafe.

The estimated cost for remedying these blocks stands at over £2.7 billion, which equates to an average of just over £2 million per building.

Rydon’s role in Grenfell Tower tragedy under scrutiny

Following the Grenfell Tower disaster, where 72 residents tragically lost their lives, major developers, including Rydon, committed to a government initiative.

This scheme requires them to address life-critical fire safety issues in buildings taller than 11 metres constructed over the past 30 years.

Life-critical safety issues primarily pertain to flammable cladding but also include fire-stopping measures in walls and fire compartmentation.

Under this scheme, developers are mandated to employ fire safety assessors to identify the blocks requiring work and to bear the costs of remediation.

Rydon has completed assessments on all its 25 buildings, with 14 needing remedial action.

As of the latest update, remediation has begun on seven of these blocks, but only two have been fully addressed.

The Guardian’s report sheds light on the ongoing challenges in ensuring safety in high-rise buildings across England, particularly in the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, and raises questions about the accountability and practices of major development firms like Rydon.

IFSJ Comment

The Guardian’s report on Rydon’s fire safety issues in residential blocks highlights a broader concern within England’s property development sector.

It underscores the importance of stringent safety measures and diligent compliance in building practices, especially in the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

The government’s remediation scheme, while a step in the right direction, reveals the scale of the challenge ahead.

Ensuring the safety of residents in high-rise buildings remains a paramount concern, calling for coordinated efforts between developers, regulatory bodies, and government initiatives.

This situation also stresses the need for transparency and accountability within the construction industry, to prevent such hazards in the future and to rebuild public trust.

Grenfell Tower Inquiry Progress: Draft chapters nearing completion, community interaction enhanced

by Featured NewsSafety

Report drafting underway

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry has published its November 2023 newsletter, revealing progress in drafting the final report.

The Inquiry Panel is currently engaged in the rule 13 process, which involves notifying individuals and organisations potentially subject to criticism in the report.

This process has reached over halfway, with more than 100 warning letters sent so far.

Chapters covering various aspects, including the history of the refurbishment, the London Fire Brigade’s (LFB) response, and the conduct of product manufacturers, are nearing completion.

However, the extensive evidence collected necessitates a prolonged drafting period, with the final report’s publication expected no earlier than April next year​​.

Continued document publication

Post the conclusion of Phase 2 hearings, the Inquiry team is focused on a sweep-up and publication process.

Documents are being continually added to the Inquiry’s website, ensuring transparency and accessibility of information to the public​​.

Community engagement

The Inquiry has scheduled a community drop-in session for December 11, 2023, offering the public an opportunity to learn more about the Inquiry process and engage directly with the Inquiry team​​.

Key figures disclosed

As of November 21, 2023, the Inquiry disclosed a total of 320,431 documents across two phases.

Additionally, the Inquiry has 638 core participants, highlighting the broad involvement and impact of the Inquiry​​​​.

Support for wellbeing

Recognising the emotional impact of the Inquiry, counselling support services remain available.

The NHS Grenfell Health and Wellbeing Service offers support for those affected, ensuring ongoing care for emotional wellbeing​​.

Open lines of communication

The Inquiry maintains open communication channels, encouraging individuals to contact the team via telephone or email for inquiries or support​​.

IFSJ Comment

The November 2023 update from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry underscores the intricate and detailed nature of such a comprehensive investigation.

The progress in drafting the final report, while time-consuming, reflects a thorough and meticulous approach to understanding and documenting the tragic events surrounding the Grenfell Tower fire.

The Inquiry’s commitment to transparency through the publication of documents and the organisation of community sessions demonstrates an inclusive approach, ensuring the process is accessible and understandable to the public and those directly affected.

The continued support for emotional wellbeing further highlights the Inquiry’s recognition of the long-term impact of the tragedy on individuals and communities.

Overall, this update is a significant milestone, indicating a move towards closure and understanding for all those impacted by the Grenfell Tower fire.

Progress made in implementing Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations

by Breaking NewsSafety

A thematic update on the implementation of Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations

In the sixth thematic update on the progress made towards implementing recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 report, the UK Government has detailed the latest strides in the pursuit of justice for the Grenfell community. This information, as found on the official government website, brings much-needed transparency to this crucial area of work.

Steady progress in addressing Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations

The report shows an increase in the rate of completion by Fire and Rescue Services (FRSs) of their action plans to address the Inquiry recommendations, from 81 to 91%. Despite this positive shift, the recommendations will not be considered complete until all FRSs have fulfilled their respective obligations.

Government’s broader commitment towards safety reforms post-Grenfell

The government’s commitment to safety extends beyond the tracker’s updates. By the end of May 2023, 96% (468) of all identified high-rise residential and publicly-owned buildings in England had either completed or initiated work to remove or replace unsafe Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding. Through the Building Safety Act, the government has introduced reforms to provide residents and homeowners with more rights, powers and protections. Since April, over 1000 high-rise residential buildings in England have started the registration process with the newly opened Building Safety Regulator.

Implementation status of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations

From the Inquiry’s 46 recommendations, 31 have now been completed. According to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) survey, the average rate of completion of all nine recommendations by each of the 43 services is 91%, and 20 FRSs have completed their action plans in full. At the time of writing, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) has completed 26 of the 29 recommendations directed specifically at them.

Government’s additional safety measures

The Government has also introduced several additional safety measures, including updates to the Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans consultation and the commencement of the Fire Safety Act 2021. Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 have also been enforced, placing more requirements on responsible persons for multi-occupied residential buildings to ensure the safety of residents.

National progress and new safety standards

The NFCC has produced the first suite of National Fire Control guidance due to funding from the Home Office after the Grenfell Tower fire. There have also been improvements in methods of transferring information between control rooms, with the Multi Agency Information Transfer (MAIT) system. The Fire Standards Board has also recently published new Fire Standards on Fire Control and Communications and Engagement.

Progress of the London Fire Brigade

The London Fire Brigade has completed 26 of the 29 recommendations directed specifically at them, with three remaining in progress.

About Grenfell Tower Inquiry

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry is a public inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire, which took place on 14 June 2017 at the 24-storey Grenfell Tower in North Kensington, West London. The disaster claimed 72 lives and is one of the deadliest domestic fires in the UK since World War II.

IFSJ Comment

This update indicates the continued commitment and progress towards implementing the vital recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. Ensuring these measures are in place is crucial to preventing such tragedies from reoccurring and to reassure the public that their safety is a priority. The transparency and regular updates provided by the government should offer a measure of accountability and demonstrate the steady advancements made in this significant area of work.

It is our hope that these improvements, paired with an increased public understanding and awareness of fire safety issues, can ensure a safer future for all residents of high-rise buildings.

Grenfell Tower illumination to mark sixth anniversary

by Breaking NewsSafety

As we approach the sixth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the community will take the lead in the commemoration events. Local residents should expect to see an increased number of visitors in the tower vicinity, as people gather to pay their respects.

In a poignant symbol of remembrance, Grenfell Tower will glow green from 8pm on 13th June to 6am on 14th June, and again from 8pm to 11pm on 14th June.

Debate in the House of Commons

Later this month, MPs will gather in the House of Commons for a significant debate marking the six years since the disaster. The discussion will focus on Grenfell’s legacy, and the government’s response concerning social housing and building safety. The specific date for this debate will be announced soon and those interested can watch the proceedings online.

Traffic monitoring and the future memorial

In the last week of June, temporary CCTV cameras will be installed around the tower site to gather data on pedestrian and traffic movements. The Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission is undertaking this task to plan for a future memorial.

Data collection will commence from 29th June until 2nd July, after which the equipment will be removed. Any changes to this plan will be communicated promptly.

Maintaining the site

Regular maintenance and safety checks are carried out by the tower site contractors, DUK. This includes ensuring the integrity of the tower’s metal supports, hoardings, lighting and security systems, and scaffolding.

In addition, routine air quality monitoring around the tower site continues, with the UK Health Security Agency taking over from Public Health England for this purpose. The monitoring results for this month are available on the government website.

Support for the community

Local opportunities, including employment, training, and practical support, are available via the tower site’s principal contractor, DUK. The Lancaster West Estate refurbishment’s next phase is also underway, with more details available online.

The local NHS service continues to provide physical and mental health support for the community members affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy. This includes specialised assistance for children and young people.

The future of Grenfell Tower

The future of the Grenfell Tower remains a matter of discussion, with no final decision made as yet. Further community engagement is planned to ensure that all voices are heard before a conclusion is reached.

More than 900 affected by Grenfell settle claims

by Featured NewsSafety

More than 900 people affected by the Grenfell Tower fire have reportedly agreed a settlement of civil claims.

The fire, which occurred almost six years ago on 14 June 2017, claimed the lives of 72 people and displaced hundreds more.

The victims and their families have been seeking compensation for the losses and damages they incurred as a result of the tragedy.

According to the lawyers, the compensation to be received by the 900 claimants is to be distributed based on their specific circumstances. However, not all victims of the fire are included in the settlement.

The settlement is said to include compensation for the victims and their families, as well as funding for community projects and improvements to fire safety measures in the area.

The settlement was welcomed by the victims and their families, who have been fighting for justice and accountability since the tragedy occurred.

The Kensington & Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation (KCTMO), which was appointed by the local council to manage its housing stock, acknowledged that a “monetary settlement cannot compensate for the loss and trauma” experienced by those affected by the Grenfell Tower fire. However, the spokesperson welcomed the settlement as a move towards providing justice for the affected individuals.

The cladding giant Arconic said it was among the firms that were involved in the high court case and had agreed to the settlement. A spokesman for Arconic said: “Arconic continues to express its deepest sympathy to the Grenfell residents and their families, and appreciates the importance of this milestone for providing a resolution that lessens the delay and stress to claimants that would result from protracted legal proceedings.”

Fire Safety regulations come into force in England

by Breaking NewsSafety

The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, which implement the majority of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations, come into force as of 23 January 2023.

The regulations are new requirements for ‘responsible persons’ of mid and high-rise blocks of flats to provide information to fire and rescue services to assist them with operational planning and provide additional safety measures.

In all multi-occupied residential buildings, residents should now be provided with fire safety instructions and information on fire doors.

The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 are now law from 23 January 2023 and form part of a package of risk mitigating fire safety measures that the government is delivering following the Grenfell Tower fire to keep the public safe.

In high-rise residential buildings, responsible persons will be required to:

  • provide their local fire and rescue service with up-to-date electronic building plans and information on the design and materials of their external wall
  • undertake monthly checks of firefighting lifts, evacuation lifts and other key pieces of firefighting equipment
  • install a secure information box and wayfinding signage

In mid-rise residential buildings (over 11 metres), responsible persons will be required to undertake annual checks of flat entrance doors and quarterly checks of all fire doors in the common part.

Minister for Crime, Policing and Fire, Chris Philp, said: “I am very pleased that measures to improve fire safety in blocks of flats are now law following recommendations made by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

“Keeping the public safe is our utmost priority and we are committed to ensuring that the Grenfell tragedy must never happen again.”

IFSJ Influencer: Stephen Mackenzie, Fire Safety Consultant

by Featured NewsIFSJ Influencers
Fire Safety Consultant Stephen Mackenzie shares his views and predictions for the fire and safety industry for the year ahead

If there is one message I have to the sector it is: listen loudly. Whether you are an expert, a practitioner or a new entrant, do not thrust your expertise on people. We have a very switched on and informed public. We have a desensitised public following Grenfell and the building safety crisis globally. Expect to be challenged.

We need to prepare for the worst case scenario: assume your contingency plan will fail on first engagement; what can go wrong will go wrong. We often see the root cause failures that caused fires such as Grenfell, Notre Dame, Glasgow School of Art – we have a root cause and then a series of compounded failures. You need to prepare, train staff, have a contingency plan, and stress test it. These are the key components to minimise the incident, whether that is property loss, life loss, or business disruption.

We are coming into a very dangerous time of global uncertainty and instability. The cost of living and energy costs are rippling through the construction industry. We are now seeing nearly 10,000 tower blocks impacted by the Grenfell crisis alone in the UK. We do not know how big the building safety crisis is around the world.

There are tens of thousand fire professionals out there, but few have spoken out since Grenfell or rallied to help impacted communities and residences. How many of our fire professionals out there are responsible for some of these tower blocks? We have got to own it and take responsibility. Defective testing: we missed it. Dangerous products: we missed it. How do we fix it?

I do not see it being fixed, even with the Fire Safety Act and Building Safety Act. I see more turmoil over the next 3-5 years as we try to implement it. We have to learn the lessons. We have to listen loudly. We have to see beyond the statistics – fire deaths are falling until the next major incident. 

We are all angry. We are all fatigued. Rather than setting new standards we need to look at what we can do within the existing legislation to bolster building and safety, refine it and make next steps. We cannot forget the disasters of the past. We have to learn. We must pass the baton of increasing levels of safety from one generation to the next.

Do not be blinded by the latest technology, the latest consultation and the latest buzzword. Take ownership of the crisis as a professional and as a profession. Let us do what we are here to do: look sensibly at what the hazards are, what the risk is, what we can do to remove, reduce and replace those. Our history informs what has happened, but it does not define the future. All too frequently we repeat the same root causes and compounded failures. We need to stop that cycle.

About the influencer

Stephen McKenzie is a consultant with demonstrated multi-disciplinary skills in complex property portfolios and has extensive, long standing academic work as an international subject expert in fire risk assessment and fire safety management. With established global networks and sector leadership accrued during a career spanning over 35 years, he is a progressive practitioner with extensive knowledge across a spectrum of built environment and engineering disciplines. He has spent the past five years, providing contribution to post-Grenfell understanding, giving advice to residents and a spectrum of stakeholders and serving as a frequent news commentator on a wide range of fire and explosion incidents.

This article was originally published in the November edition of IFSJ. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.