World Day for Health and Safety at Work: Fostering a safer environment through collaboration

The theme for WDHSW 2023 is "Get H&S right, because it's a right everyone has to feel safe". It highlights the fact that everyone has the right to a safe and healthy work environment, and it is the responsibility of employers and governments to ensure this right is protected.

The Building Safety Act and why knowing it is important.

Despite the importance of health and safety in the workplace, it remains a problem for many industries. One area where this is particularly true is in the construction industry. A recent report from NBS has shown that nearly half of construction professionals are unclear on laws relating to the Building Safety Act. This is a worrying statistic, as the act is an important piece of legislation that is designed to improve the safety of buildings and protect the public.

The act, following Dame Judith Hackitt report, is intended to drive greater ownership of safety within buildings, an area of clear omission within her report. One of the defining factors of the construction industry is the quantity and complex relationships between stakeholders, developers, investors, builders, consultants, insurers, solicitors, and the wider supply chain.

There must be a greater desire to take accountability for the role individuals and organisations play, yet there is still a reluctance. It has been disheartening to see that half of conveyancers have stopped work on higher risk residential buildings (HRRB), having been instructed to check for ‘any specific instructions on building safety’, with many feeling unclear on their role, instead adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach for clarity on act.

This feeling has permeated through to construction professionals, with the report also finding that 43% were unsure or had no idea on the processes for the new legislation, and the same percentage were unclear on the responsibilities of duty holders regarding the three planning gateways. This lack of knowledge is a serious concern, as it could lead to dangerous practices and potentially catastrophic accidents. This lack of engagement has also been seen during the implementation of gateway one, during which some 50% of applications were returned with concerns over the fire safety measures in the design.

It is imperative for those in the construction industry to have a good understanding of the Building Safety Act 2021, because it represents a significant shift in the way that building safety is regulated and managed in the UK. The act introduces a range of new requirements for building safety, that will affect developers, building owners, managers, and contractors. Importantly it now introduces a new legal framework under which clients and construction professionals can face criminal charges.

Some of the key reasons why it is important to know about the Building Safety Act 2021 in the construction industry include:

1. Compliance: The act introduces new requirements and obligations for fire safety, structural safety, overall building safety during construction and use it is essential that those in the construction industry understand these requirements to ensure compliance. Failure to comply with the new regulations could result in significant fines or legal action.
2. Safety: The primary goal of the Building Safety Act 2021 is to improve the safety of buildings in the UK. By understanding the new requirements, those in the construction industry can help to ensure that buildings are designed, constructed, and managed in a way that prioritises safety.
3. Reputation: Building safety has become a key issue in the UK following several high-profile incidents, such as the Grenfell Tower fire. By showing a commitment to understanding and complying with the new regulations, as well as learning from other countries with similar requirements, those in the construction industry can help to protect their reputation and demonstrate their commitment to building safety.

The construction industry is not the only sector that struggles with health and safety issues. Many other industries also face challenges when it comes to protecting workers from harm. However, it is important to remember that health and safety is a fundamental right that everyone deserves. Employers and governments have a responsibility to ensure that workers are protected from harm, and that they have the knowledge and tools they need to do their jobs safely.

How can you get up to date on the Building Safety Act?

There are several ways to access education on the Building Safety Act, including:

• Attending training courses: Many training providers offer courses on the act, which cover the new legislation, its requirements, and how to comply with it. These courses are often available in-person or online and can be tailored to suit different levels of expertise and roles within the industry.
• Participating in industry events: Attending conferences, seminars, and webinars on the act is a great way to learn from experts in the field and hear about the latest developments and best practices. These events often provide opportunities to ask questions and network with other professionals.
• Reading industry publications: Keeping up-to-date with trade publications is an excellent way to stay informed about the latest news and developments related to the act. There are many publications available, including magazines, newsletters, and blogs, which cover topics such as new legislation, case studies, and best practices.
• Collaborating with industry bodies: Organisations such as the Construction Industry Council (CIC) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) offer resources and guidance on the act. They also provide opportunities for members to collaborate and share knowledge with other professionals in the industry.

By taking advantage of these educational resources, construction professionals can ensure they have a thorough understanding of the act and how to comply with it. This will not only help them meet their legal obligations but also help to create safer buildings for everyone.

Creating a safer future

WDHSW is an important reminder of the need to prioritise health and safety in the workplace. Everyone has the right to feel safe at work, and it is up to employers and governments to ensure that this right is protected. By providing education and training, staying up-to-date with changing legislation, and fostering a culture of safety, we can all work together to create safer and healthier workplaces for everyone.