The Fire Protection Association (FPA) is advocating for the new government to prioritise fire life safety and property protection within its built environment strategy. The FPA has unveiled six key policy statements aimed at driving these changes.
For many years, the FPA has been dedicated to reducing fire risks and enhancing safety in UK buildings. The organisation provides fire safety guidance and information to the government, industry, insurers, members, and the public.
The FPA’s mission is to protect people, property, and the environment in the UK, while fostering innovation and economic growth in the construction and property sectors without compromising fire safety. However, the reforms they propose often do not come to fruition.
With the election of a new government and the imminent release of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report, the FPA believes the obstacles to change have diminished and is urging the government to take action.
Dr. Gavin Dunn, Managing Director of the FPA, states, “The FPA is advocating for changes to fire safety and property protection in buildings. We are proud to publish our manifesto outlining six policy areas for the new government to consider. These proposals are feasible and can significantly enhance safety and wellbeing in UK properties, while also benefiting the economy.”
To achieve these goals, the FPA recommends the following six key policies:
Better Protection for Schools and Care Homes
- Mandate the installation of sprinkler systems in all new and significantly refurbished schools and care homes.
Ensure Competency of Fire Risk Assessors
- Require all fire risk assessors to be appropriately qualified and certified under a UKAS-accredited scheme, with ongoing professional development to maintain their competence.
Continue Implementing the Building Safety Act and Support the Building Safety Regulator
- Support the implementation of the Building Safety Act 2022 and its supplementary legislation, emphasising the key role of the Building Safety Regulator.
Implement the Morrell/Day Report on Construction Product Safety
- Urgently adopt initiatives to support the recommendations of the Morrell/Day Report on construction product safety.
Support the Safe Transition to Net Zero
- Develop policies and guidance for the transition to net zero, focusing on new energy technologies and low-carbon construction techniques that impact fire safety and property resilience.
Support Planning System Reforms with Data-Driven Fire Protection Measures
- Utilise data to effectively target fire protection measures, particularly in high-risk buildings and those far from fire and rescue services, as part of planning system reforms.
The FPA is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to advance these pragmatic and achievable policies. These initiatives do not require new legislation, as existing powers can bring about transformative changes. By prioritising fire safety, we can protect lives, enhance the economic value of the built environment, and contribute to the overall wellbeing and prosperity of society.
You can access the full FPA manifesto here.
