Supporting Clients with the Building Safety Act 2022
The Building Safety Act (BSA) 2022 & Higher Risk Buildings was introduced to the construction industry following the Grenfell disaster in 2017 and findings from the subsequent inquiry. Sadly, it often takes a tragedy for industries to examine processes and materials, but that knowledge and understanding must now be applied to change the way buildings are designed and built. The introduction of the BSA has redefined processes for all companies and individuals involved in building works, from initial conception to occupation and beyond.
Supporting our clients
Cudd Bentley Consulting are currently involved in several projects that must comply with the BSA regulations. We are also involved in two projects that must conform to the Higher Risk Building category of the BSA. Our team of highly skilled mechanical and electrical engineers has decades of experience and expertise that enable them to not only deliver the standards necessary for compliance but also to understand all requirements.
What is a Higher Risk Building?
The Higher Risk Buildings category includes structures with at least two residential units that are over 18 metres (or seven storeys) tall. This category covers care homes, hospitals, student accommodation, and in the case of our active projects, multi-residential buildings.
Criteria for meeting BSA
Greater consideration is required during the design stage of mechanical, electrical and public health services, particularly where fire safety is concerned. For example, all structural holes required for the distribution of services through a building need to be fully dimensioned and an asset number assigned; when these holes are created during construction, photos are linked to the original asset number. Once services are installed through each hole and fire-stopping is applied around them, photos are updated accordingly. This process creates an audit trail of any modifications from the initial design intent, allowing the client, approved inspector, and designer to review and approve the changes to ensure they are compliant. Further input is also required throughout the design and construction stages in the fire & smoke detection systems, smoke ventilation systems, sprinkler systems and firestopping details.
Changes in information and reporting requirements
There is a big shift in the level of information required to meet BSA standards from an early stage. This change in requirements presents new challenges that all involved must overcome. However, this is all worthwhile if it enhances the safety of a building and its occupants. CBC understands how important it is for our clients that their projects not only meet high standards and regulations, but also that key stakeholders receive support throughout this process.
Our team recognises that providing this level of information can feel overwhelming for our clients. The service we offer not only alleviates that burden for them but also simplifies the key points and milestones into reports and communication that offer the reassurance they need throughout the project.
If you need to comply with a Higher Risk Building project, please contact our team for support.