The Construction Products Association has welcomed the publication of the interim report from Dame Judith Hackitt’s Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety. Having consulted widely with the industry including the CPA, the Review team has singled out two overarching issues: the effectiveness of the regulations and regulators; and the culture across the construction industry.
Peter Caplehorn, CPA Deputy Chief Executive and Policy Director, said:
“Dame Judith’s Independent Review is right to question how the construction sector can address the effectiveness of regulations and regulators. The construction products industry has a vital role to play, leading a culture change – and in Dame Judith’s own words – ensuring products are not only properly tested and certified but also marketed in a way that is easy to interpret.
“Safety in buildings will always be our top priority and following such a tragic event like Grenfell we are right to look at the current system for fire safety in buildings and ask if it is fit for purpose. Dame Judith recognises that buildings are not currently inherently unsafe but certain shortcomings need to be addressed that cover the complete spectrum, from project initiation through design, procurement and construction, to occupation and use.
“The CPA’s membership represents over 85 per cent of our industry by value; therefore our company and trade association members will play a central role in taking forward the interim report’s recommendations. We are pleased to have been able to contribute to the Review and look forward to leading our sector to help deliver tangible results.”