The construction industry faces a critical juncture as it grapples with the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, highlighted by the latest findings from the Competence Steering Group (CSG). The report, "A Higher Bar," underscores the sector's readiness—or lack thereof—for the sweeping changes mandated by the Building Safety Act. These changes are pivotal in ensuring the competence of the workforce and guaranteeing that employees do not operate beyond their expertise.
The CSG's analysis reveals a sector at a crossroads, necessitating ongoing support to navigate the substantial adjustments required. Among the key reforms are the interactions with the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) and National Regulator for Construction Products, alongside the imperative for companies to make their clients aware of their responsibilities before commencing work.
Originating in response to the Hackitt Review, which itself was a reaction to the Grenfell Tower fire, the CSG will transition into the Industry Competence Steering Committee under the BSR’s umbrella. This move is designed to foster a closer monitoring and advisory relationship concerning industry competence.
Hanna Clarke's appointment as the new chair of the committee marks a new chapter in the group's efforts to enhance industry standards and visibility. The committee aims to leverage its relationship with the BSR to refine and test its initiatives, thereby elevating industry competence levels.
The report identifies several challenges in establishing and maintaining competence across the sector. Despite the establishment of thirteen working groups targeting various aspects of the built environment, there remains a significant gap in the implementation of competence qualifications, with most areas still in need of a structured approach to testing and certification.
Additionally, the report highlights the urgent need for increased awareness and education on the importance of competence at all construction levels. The creation of new BSI standards and Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) by the CSG is a step in the right direction, yet the report acknowledges that much work remains to be done in terms of implementation and industry-wide adoption.
In light of these findings, the construction sector is called upon to elevate its competence standards. Achieving this goal is crucial for restoring public trust and ensuring the safety and integrity of buildings. As the industry moves towards the implementation phase, the collective effort of professionals and tradespeople in adopting higher competence levels will be instrumental in shaping a safer, more reliable future in construction.
At Find A Start, we recognise the importance of these developments and are committed to supporting the construction industry through this transformative period. Our platform connects contractors with skilled tradespeople, facilitating the assembly of competent teams capable of meeting the rigorous standards set forth in the Building Safety Act. By offering a streamlined process for contractors and tradespeople alike, we aim to contribute to the industry's efforts in raising competence levels and ensuring the safety and quality of construction projects.
For more information on how Find A Start can assist in meeting the new competence requirements in construction, visit our website at www.findastart.co.uk.