Yesterday marks a significant milestone in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, as the findings of the extensive six-year investigation are released. The Inquiry, which is crucial to understanding the tragic events of June 14, 2017, aims to provide clarity while honouring the memory of 72 lives lost.
Richard Beresford, Chief Executive of the National Federation of Builders (NFB), said:
“The Building Safety Act began the process of ensuring the Grenfell tragedy never happens again, but from cladding and Building Regulation process, to maintenance and fire safety protocol, the Phase 2 report highlights and details many other concerns that could have prevented the fires tragic loss of life.”
The Inquiry has uncovered critical insights into the factors that lead to the Grenfell Tower fire, highlighting considerable failings in several areas, including cladding manufacturers and insulation works, refurbishment companies, Government’s approach, Local council and housing management and the London Fire Brigade.
The Inquiry has made several key recommendations aimed at preventing such a tragedy from recurring, including:
Building regulations and the construction industry
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Establish an independent regulatory body, reporting to a single Secretary of State, to ensure effective information sharing and promote the exchange of ideas. This “construction regulator” would be sufficiently resourced to take on functions currently managed by a variety of bodies, including licensing contractors on higher risk buildings
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Urgently review the definition of a ‘higher risk’ building as outlined in the Building Safety Act
Government
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Bring responsibilities for fire safety currently exercised by Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government, the Home Office and the Department for Business and Trade into one department under one Secretary of State
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Appoint a Chief Construction Adviser with a sufficient budget and staff to expert provide advice on all matters affecting the construction industry
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Review and update statutory guidance, particularly Approved Document B accordingly, and publish revised guidelines as soon as possible
Fire safety strategy
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Collaborate with the professional and academic community to develop new testing methods that provide the information needed for such assessments to be carried out reliably
