FPA outlines roadmap for change following Grenfell Tower Inquiry findings

Dr Gavin Dunn, Chief Executive of the Fire Protection Association (FPA), has responded to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, outlining a roadmap for industry change.

The Phase 2 report, led by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, focuses on the systemic failures that contributed to the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in 2017, which claimed 72 lives.

As reported by the FPA, the Inquiry highlights deficiencies in building design, fire safety measures, and regulatory systems.

The report identifies over 60 recommendations aimed at improving fire and building safety across the UK.

Dr Dunn remarked that the report’s findings should prompt a major industry shift to prioritise safety.

To read Dr Dunn’s full comments on the report and its recommendations, visit the FPA’s official website here.

Building products and testing standards criticised in inquiry report

The Inquiry report exposes widespread failures in the regulation of construction products, particularly combustible cladding.

The lack of stringent oversight allowed manufacturers to distribute unsafe materials, and existing testing standards, such as BS 476, failed to adequately assess the fire risks posed by modern materials.

Recommendations from the Inquiry include the establishment of an independent authority to oversee construction product safety, the replacement of outdated testing standards, and the implementation of regular recertification for materials used in high-risk buildings.

Dr Dunn expressed support for these changes, noting that stricter product oversight is crucial to preventing future tragedies.

Failures in building control and fire safety assessments identified

The Phase 2 report also highlights the failings of building control departments, particularly in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC).

These departments did not sufficiently examine the fire hazards posed by combustible cladding and relied too heavily on manufacturer certifications.

The report calls for reforms in building control, including improved competency assessments and increased inspection frequency.

Fire engineers and risk assessors were found to have provided inadequate assessments, failing to address the specific risks posed by Grenfell Tower’s cladding system.

The Inquiry recommends mandatory accreditation for fire engineers and assessors, along with enhanced training to improve competency across the sector.

Redefining high-risk buildings in wake of Grenfell tragedy

A key theme in the report is the need to redefine “high-risk buildings” in the UK’s regulatory framework.

The current definition, which is based primarily on building height, does not sufficiently account for other risk factors such as vulnerable occupants or the presence of fire safety features.

Sir Martin Moore-Bick’s recommendations suggest a more nuanced, risk-based approach to building classification and fire safety protocols.

Dr Dunn acknowledged the challenges of expanding the definition but emphasised the importance of a tailored approach to fire safety.

He pointed out that changing the definition could have far-reaching implications for the industry, requiring new strategies and resources to meet safety standards for a broader range of buildings.

Fire Protection Association addresses Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations: summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has responded to the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, which outlines the systemic failures that led to the 2017 fire that claimed 72 lives.

The report recommends significant reforms in the fire safety and construction sectors, including the establishment of an independent authority for construction product safety, the overhaul of testing standards, and the redefinition of “high-risk buildings.”

To read Dr Gavin Dunn’s full comments on the report and its recommendations, visit the FPA’s official website here.