For those who manage high-risk buildings, compliance with the Building Safety Act is crucial if they are to avoid the new unlimited fines and multi-year jail terms provided for by the act. In this post, we will look at best practices that have been developed that will help ensure your building complies with this important piece of legislation.
8 Steps to Building Safety Act Compliance
In order to ensure your building is compliant with regulations laid down by the Building Safety Act we recommend you implement the following steps:
- Step 1: Read the legislation thoroughly – You cannot comply with the Act until you first take the time to read and understand it. This is non-negotiable for residential building managers.
- Step 2: Assign a building safety manager – The Building Safety Act requires all high-risk buildings to have a building safety manager. They should understand the Act inside and out and have adequate time to devote to the job.
- Step 3: Conduct regular risk assessments – The building safety manager should conduct regular assessments that reflect any structural, usage or other changes that could impact building safety.
- Step 4: Maintain a safety case file – This is required by the Building Safety Act and must contain details of exactly how the building’s safety risks are being managed.
- Step 5: Engage your residents – Make sure you engage regularly with your residents and keep them informed about any changes to the building and how those changes might impact them.
- Step 6: Maintain proper records – Keep detailed records of all safety measures, inspections, resident meetings and changes to the building.
- Step 7: Make sure your staff are properly trained – The building safety manager cannot be the only one who understands the Building Safety Act and its implications. Make sure everyone on your staff is thoroughly trained.
- Step 8: Conduct regular inspections – Make sure you inspect the building regularly focusing on the fire safety system and other crucial components of the building’s safety regime.
Final thoughts
No one wants to see a repeat of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. Building managers can do their part by implementing the above steps so as to ensure their building is compliant with the new Building Safety Act.
