- Fire Sector Federation Chairman Michael Harper has restated that all Federation members remain fully committed to seeking change in the building safety system
- He highlights the danger of another tragic fire has not gone away despite two years of concerted effort.
- Wants to place understanding and education at the heart of moving the country forward to become a fire safe place
The Fire Sector Federation Board in welcoming inclusion in the Queen’s Speech of the government’s intention to “….bring forward laws to implement new building safety standards”, whilst noting its members contribution to the ‘Raising the Bar’ competency consultation conferences and participation in the technical review of Approved Document B of the Building Regulations, has again restated concern at the rate of real progress.
Declaring it is willing and passionate about partnering with others the work needed to change for the better the existing broken building fire safety system Chairman Michael Harper said
“This summer’s devastating fires in a care home, residential building and hotel have shown again, if anyone needed reminding, that even the most modern buildings lack resilience to fire”.
“Watching these recently constructed buildings disappear over a few hours is a stark reminder of the challenges we still face. It shows us all just how far we have to go to put right the fire safety system of this country”.
Worryingly for the Federation Board a deep concern remains that a lack of understanding and consideration about fire risk continues to exist. The Board considers a better foundation is needed throughout the construction sector in fire safety education. And that the culture and assurance systems now in place have to change if they are to offer public confidence that the products and people involved in protecting them from fire are really right for the job.
Concluding Michael Harper added
“The passion of our whole fire industry, to never let another tragedy like Grenfell Tower happen again, remains as strong as ever and we reaffirm that we will work in partnership with all and any other party that shares that aim and commitment”.