Grenfell Tower
regime that is much more closely aligned to the realities of construction in the built environment, rather than one that is divorced from these realities. Again, this is an area of concern where the industry’s view may not be welcomed or may face opposition; however, as end users of this system, it is vital we make our voices heard. As the industry that bears the cost of over
£1bn per year in fire claims costs, we need to be relentless in pushing for this particular test to be improved, and for the overall testing regime within building control to build a greater sense of confidence in those who rely on it.
Case for sprinklers
We should also not shirk from our ambition to have mandated sprinkler protection in buildings where it makes sense. The broader implications of the ongoing reviews need to address the situation of the most vulnerable in our society, and how best to ensure their protection from fire. This must mean a change in legislation to mandate the installation of fire suppression systems in all new build schools and new build care homes.
Expert panel
The Grenfell Technical Group is due to report to the Grenfell Independent Expert Panel, also chaired by Sir Ken Knight, which is made up of a range of building and fire safety experts from a number of organisations, including the Building Research Establishment and the National Fire Chiefs Council.
This panel seeks to help the government
ascertain if any immediate actions need to be taken on any fire and safety issues in high rise buildings. For example, it will consider whether changes or clarifications are required to existing regulations, and provide advice on possible changes, including making recommendations on the use of specific materials. In addition, it will look at whether the current process for assuring fire and building safety in high rise buildings, including through the building control process, is fit for purpose, and whether any immediate changes are required.
Making reforms reality
The change process itself will take time, but to make no meaningful change is simply not an option. We cannot as a country look back on the Grenfell tragedy in years to come and have failed to have brought about meaningful reform. The insurance industry has a key role to play in ensuring that this overhaul happens. A good start has been made, and the current case is strong – some would say undeniable – but the cogs still require a lot more turning to make sure the much needed reform becomes a reality. Crucially, the reforms that are made must be designed to ensure they can move with the times. Regulations must never be allowed to fall so far behind modern building practices again
Mark Shepherd is head of property, cyber and specialist lines at the Association of British Insurers. For more information, view page 5
FOCUS
www.frmjournal.com JUNE 2018
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