Low awareness among professionals on fire safety law changes

WorkNest has reported that many organisations risk non-compliance with recent fire safety law changes, as over half of health and safety professionals are unclear on the details.

Polling conducted by WorkNest found that only 2% of respondents felt confident about the implications of the Building Safety Act 2022, which became fully effective in April 2024.

The amendments update Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) requirements, introduce ‘accountable’ and ‘competent’ person roles, and strengthen the authority of enforcement bodies.

Jeff Watkins, Head of Fire Safety at WorkNest, said: “These amendments follow on from the Grenfell Tower disaster’s Hackett Review, which also resulted in the Building Safety Act 2022.

“That Act has only been fully implemented for less than a year and those in the residential and construction industries particularly will have already been dedicating time and resources to it.

“However, there’s even more to be aware of now with regards to fire safety.”

Key fire safety amendments in the Building Safety Act 2022

The recent changes, introduced under Article 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022, modify FRA requirements and fire safety responsibilities.

The adjustments include clarifications on identifying and informing ‘Responsible Persons’ to improve coordination between stakeholders.

Full FRA documentation is now required instead of just a summary of significant findings.

Fire safety arrangements must include improved access to information for residents.

There is also a focus on the competence of fire risk assessors.

A new British standard is in draft form and is expected to be introduced this year to define the qualifications needed for conducting FRAs.

Building safety regulations introduce new construction requirements

The revisions include updates to Approved Document B (Fire Safety), affecting new developments.

New requirements mandate staircase, sprinkler, and lift shaft standards in all new buildings.

Additionally, the UK has adopted European standards for fire resistance materials, which will influence future construction projects.

These updates are intended to align fire safety regulations with modern construction practices and ensure that new developments meet stricter safety standards.

Government focus on fire safety reforms continues

WorkNest highlighted that fire safety remains a priority for the UK government, with ongoing regulatory developments.

Jeff Watkins added: “Fire safety is high on the Government agenda as it should be.

“We’re seeing new regulatory bodies being formed and an ongoing overhaul of legacy laws so it’s important that those in the building construction sector and all health and safety practitioners across the board keep on top of reforms.”

With new requirements affecting various sectors, businesses are urged to stay informed and update their fire safety protocols to ensure compliance.

New fire safety laws introduce compliance challenges for organisations: Summary

WorkNest has reported that organisations are at risk of non-compliance with recent fire safety law changes, with many health and safety professionals unclear on the amendments.

The Building Safety Act 2022, which came into full effect in April 2024, includes updates to Fire Risk Assessment requirements, introduces new responsible roles, and strengthens enforcement authorities.

Key changes under Article 156 include clearer definitions of ‘Responsible Persons,’ mandatory full FRA documentation, improved access to fire safety information for residents, and new competency requirements for fire risk assessors.

Updates to Approved Document B introduce new construction standards for staircases, sprinklers, lift shafts, and fire-resistant materials in all new developments.

The UK government continues to prioritise fire safety reform, with new regulatory bodies and further legislative changes expected.

WorkNest advises businesses in the residential and construction industries to stay informed and adapt their safety protocols accordingly.