Looking ahead to 2025, key changes in building safety regulations are on the horizon, and preparations are underway to ensure compliance and safety across all properties. Our Associate Director of Building Safety and Compliance, Connor Scherer, recently outlined our key priorities for the new year, highlighting the proactive measures we’re taking to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents.
CE Marking Extensions
The Government has extended the recognition of the CE (‘Conformité Européenne’) marking for construction products beyond the previously set deadline of June 2025. This decision addresses concerns about insufficient UK testing and certification capacity and aims to prevent trade barriers that could disrupt the supply of construction products meeting recognised standards.
Fire safety and evacuation
In response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 1 recommendations, ‘Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans’ (PEEPs) will be introduced for disabled and vulnerable residents in high-rise and higher-risk residential buildings in England. These plans will include person-centred risk assessments and ‘Residential PEEPs statements’ detailing evacuation procedures. The implementation of PEEPs aims to enhance safety for individuals with mobility or sensory impairments by providing tailored evacuation strategies during emergencies.
Building Safety Regulator
In October 2024, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) became the Building Control Authority for all higher-risk buildings in England, marking a significant shift in accountability and compliance for building safety management. This regulatory body will oversee adherence to new, and more stringent, safety protocols and standards. To strengthen regulatory oversight, building work on higher-risk buildings will have to pass through a rigorous process consisting of three gateway points.
Sprinkler System Requirements
New guidelines mandate the installation of sprinkler systems in care homes to improve fire safety for vulnerable groups. Additionally, the outdated National Classes fire testing standards are being withdrawn to establish a clearer, more transparent, and effective testing regime. These requirements are being seamlessly integrated into our ongoing projects.
Get in Touch:
If you have any questions about our safety initiatives or want to learn how we can support your building safety needs, please call us on 03330 124 125.
Preparing for these changes ensures buildings are safe, compliant, and ready for the evolving regulatory landscape in 2025.
