The publication of the final report from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry last week is ‘a stark reminder’ of the ‘critical need for transparency, integrity and robust regulation’ within the building and construction industry, CIBSE has said.
In its response to the release of the ‘phase two’ report, CIBSE acknowledged the continuing suffering of the families of the 72 people who lost their lives as well as the survivors of the tragic blaze in June 2017.
‘This is a deeply emotional and harrowing chapter for the bereaved, the survivors and the families of the Grenfell Tower victims. CIBSE recognises the suffering that has persisted, and our hearts go out, once more, to all those whose lives were forever altered by this unimaginable tragedy,’ CIBSE said.
The institution’s technical director Dr Anastasia Mylona added: ‘The findings of the Grenfell Inquiry report are both sobering and a stark reminder of the critical need for transparency, integrity and robust regulation within our industry.
‘As the report highlights systemic failures, CIBSE remains committed to driving the necessary reforms in building and fire safety engineering practices. Our role is to ensure that the highest standards are upheld, and that the safety of residents is always the paramount concern in the built environment,’ Dr Mylona added.
The institution will, CIBSE said, ‘continue to support its members and the broader construction community in implementing the lessons learned from Grenfell and ensuring that building safety remains a top priority.’
The report into the fire made it clear that all 72 deaths were avoidable and blamed the disaster on a combination of failings by the government, construction industry, emergency response services, and, most of all, the firms involved in fitting the exterior with flammable cladding.
The full report can be found at https://www.grenfelltowerinquiry.org.uk/phase-2-report
Separately, last month’s fire at a block of flats in Dagenham illustrates the need for ‘industry-wide adoption of enhanced safety standards’, CIBSE has also said.
While, again, extending deepest sympathies to all those affected, CIBSE said the fire underscored ‘the urgent need for rigorous fire safety measures across the construction industry’.
David Fitzpatrick, chair of the CIBSE Fire Safety Group, said: ‘Fire safety is a complex and multifaceted issue that extends far beyond cladding. It encompasses everything from smoke alarms and warning systems to smoke clearance strategies for both escape routes and firefighting operations. The materials used in construction, their correct application, and proper installation are all critical components of a comprehensive fire safety strategy.
‘The industry is witnessing a positive shift towards making every building safer, but this incident highlights the importance of not only applying these standards to new constructions but also prioritising the refurbishment of older buildings. Fire safety remains a pressing issue that cannot be ignored, and it must remain at the forefront of our industry’s efforts,’ Fitzpatrick added.
