BUILDING FABRIC 53 A NEW ERA OF SAFETY
The residential sector has a variety of new safety and certifi cation requirements to navigate, especially under the Building Safety Act. Mike Vaczi of SOPREMA UK highlights why housebuilders and developers need to familiarise themselves with their evolving obligations.
T
he Building Safety Act has transformed how residential buildings must be designed, constructed, and documented. This transformation is particularly signifi cant for developments over 1 metres or seven storeys containing two or more residential units, where requirements are exceptionally stringent. Housebuilders must now demonstrate unprecedented levels of due diligence in product selection, testing verifi cation, and documentation.
Central to these new requirements is the olden Thread a comprehensive, accessible record of building safety information throughout a project’s lifecycle. This encompasses detailed product specifi cations, test data, certifi cation documentation, and installation records. For housebuilders, implementing robust systems for
managing and maintaining this information from initial design through to building completion and occupation has become essential. The ackitt eview’s fi ndings highlighted signifi cant weaknesses in product testing and certifi cation processes within the construction industry. In response, the Building Safety Act introduces stricter requirements for product verifi cation and testing. ne crucial aspect often overlooked is the importance of system testing versus component testing. Products must be tested as part of complete systems, matching how they will be installed on site. For instance, roofi ng and facade systems need to be tested with all components in place, including insulation, membranes, and fi xings. Any variation from the tested system could affect performance and compliance.
The Act’s Gateway process introduces strict documentation requirements at key project stages. Gateway 2 is particularly crucial, requiring comprehensive product safety information before construction can begin. This means maintaining detailed technical documentation for all specifi ed products, providing evidence of appropriate testing and certifi cation, and demonstrating how products meet performance requirements. Any deviations from tested systems must be thoroughly justifi ed and documented.
Competency requirements under the Act demand a new level of expertise across all project stages. Design teams must possess a deep understanding of product performance requirements, while installation teams require proper training and qualifi cations. Site supervision must include appropriate technical expertise, supported by robust
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