With the deadline looming, Harris Associates Explains why its Crucial to submit the Key Building information for your Building Safety Case
Published: 24/10/2023
Since the tragic fire at Grenfell in 2017, the safety of buildings has become a more fundamental concern for society in the UK. People rely on structures for shelter, work, and recreation, and we expect these buildings to provide a safe and secure environment. The Building Safety Act states that tall residential buildings (over 18 metres) require a Building Safety Case Report which initially requires the submission of key building information with a deadline of 28th October 2023. It is a process that ensures not only the safety of occupants but also the integrity of the structure itself.
What Is a Building Safety Case?
A Building Safety Case is a comprehensive document that outlines the safety measures and risk management strategies associated with a particular building or structure. It serves as a crucial tool for authorities, stakeholders, and the public to evaluate the safety of the building in question. The building safety case should encompass a range of data and information, including design plans, maintenance procedures, emergency response protocols, and more.
Why is it so Important to Submit Key Building Information?
Life Safety: The foremost reason for submitting key building information is to protect the lives of those who use and occupy the building. In the event of an emergency, such as a fire or natural disaster, the data contained in the building safety case can help emergency responders and occupants make informed decisions that may be critical to their safety.
Structural Integrity: A building's structural integrity is of vital importance. Submitting architectural and engineering plans ensures that the building has been designed and constructed to meet safety standards, which is essential for long-term durability and stability.
Risk Management: Building information is crucial for risk assessment and management. By understanding the potential risks associated with a structure, authorities can implement proactive measures to mitigate these risks, thereby preventing accidents or damage.
Legal Compliance: The Building Safety Act requires building owners and operators to submit building safety cases. Non-compliance is against the law and those responsible would be liable if a fire was to break out and there was no safety case report in place therefore ensuring that key building information is submitted is crucial to meeting these legal requirements.
Accountability and Transparency: A Building Safety Case provides transparency and accountability to the public. They demonstrate that owners and operators are committed to ensuring the safety of occupants and that they are taking the necessary steps to manage risks.
Key Information to Include
- BASIC BUILDING INFORMATION
- DETAILS OF ACCOUNTABLE PERSON/ PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABLE PERSON
- CONSTRUCTION OF THE BUILDING
- RESIDENT PROFILE
- MEANS OF ESCAPE INCLUDING TRAVEL DISTANCES
- FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTIVE MEASURES
- STRUCTURAL SAFETY
- SERVICES AND UTILITIES
- MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION
- EMERGENCY PLANNING
The importance of submitting key building information for a building safety case cannot be overstated. It is the cornerstone of ensuring the safety and integrity of a building, protecting the lives of its occupants, and preventing catastrophic events. Ultimately, a robust building safety case is a testament to a commitment to safety and responsible building management.
Harris Associates has a dedicated in-house team dealing with compliance matters, including the preparation of Safety Case Reports. Our compliance team comprises chartered surveyors, chartered engineers, technicians, and fire safety professionals.
We are skilled at helping clients navigate through the increasingly burdensome requirements of statutory compliance. In particular, when delivering joined-up services that take in the requirements of the Building Safety Act 2022, Fire Safety Act 2021, Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, the ever-present Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and Building Regulations.
For more information on our services, assistance, or advice on these latest developments or any related fire safety or regulatory matter please contact Shaun Harris, Tamer Duman, or Richard Stone via phone or email at shaun@harrisassociatesuk.com, tamer@harrisassociatesuk.com or richard@harrisassociatesuk.com call 0203 195 0857, 0161 615 3679 or 0121 213 6307.