Traditionally, fire detection and alarm systems have been designed and implemented to ensure safe and rapid evacuation in the event of fire. However, today’s risk landscape increasingly requires buildings to respond effectively to a broader range of threats, including intruders, violent incidents, external hazards or environmental risks. This new guidance demonstrates how existing fire detection and alarm infrastructures can be used to support both evacuation and lockdown scenarios in a safe, compliant and co-ordinated manner.

The document emphasises that, while integration is possible and often beneficial, fire safety must always remain the highest priority. Any use of fire detection and alarm systems for non-fire purposes must ensure that fire detection, alarm transmission and evacuation signalling are never compromised. Clear differentiation between signals is essential, with distinct tones, messages and procedures to avoid confusion among building occupants.

One key principle highlighted in the guidance is that lockdown signalling can share fire detection and alarm system infrastructure – leveraging its reliability, monitoring and resilience – provided that the system is carefully engineered. Fire alarm signals must remain clearly distinguishable and cannot be masked, delayed or overridden by other alerts.

Different approaches

The guidance also explores how different European countries are addressing this topic. While there’s no harmonised European Union regulation, national frameworks increasingly support a multi-hazard approach. Examples include the Netherlands, where evacuation alarm systems are explicitly intended for ‘fire or other emergencies’ and recent updates in the UK that allow fire alarm sounders to be used for lockdown with distinct signalling.

Beyond regulatory context, the document provides practical engineering and design recommendations. These include conducting thorough risk assessments, defining clear cause-and-effect logic, ensuring signal intelligibility and establishing priority hierarchies between evacuation and lockdown functions.

The importance of integrating these strategies into the overall fire protection concept and gaining approval from the relevant authorities is also strongly emphasised throughout.

Human factors

The guidance further highlights the importance of human factors. In emergency situations, occupants must be able to quickly understand what action to take. This requires clear and intelligible messaging, regular training and rehearsed procedures. Whether evacuating a building or securing it, the effectiveness of the response depends not only on technology, but also on preparedness.

As buildings become more complex and risks more diverse, integrated emergency communication systems are becoming increasingly important. This new guidance from Euralarm provides a harmonised framework to help stakeholders design and implement systems that support both evacuation and lockdown strategies without compromising safety or compliance.

Through this publication, Euralarm continues to support its members and the wider industry in adapting to evolving safety challenges, promoting Best Practice and enhancing the protection of people and property across Europe.

*Euralarm’s Guidance on the Use of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems for Lockdown is available for download at www.euralarm.org

After due consideration of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Panel’s Phase 2 report, the critical findings regarding systemic failure and the recommendations within regarding fire risk assessments, the Government determined that it would “legislate to make it mandatory for anyone acting as a fire risk assessor to have their competence independently verified”.

The Governments consultation on the Fire Risk Assessors Profession in England presents a vital opportunity for practitioners to express their opinions on how that mandatory process might best be accomplished. This is a rare and crucial opportunity to help create the hugely important legacy of a safer future.

That said, responses to such consultations are never simple. Inevitably, there’s a great deal of information and a myriad of questions to be absorbed. Then it’s about balancing the information presented and answering from a personal perspective in terms of how fire risk assessment affects the individual, be they a building occupant, a building user, the ‘Responsible Person’, a client, a building owner, an insurer or, indeed, a practising fire risk assessor.

It’s also worth remembering that, while any outcome may only apply in England at this stage, all of the Home Nations are watching. Further, the duties detailed in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in terms of who undertakes the risk assessment are, as things stand, pretty flexible.

Setting out the vision

In setting out its vision for the profession, the Government makes several points that the fire risk assessment sector warmly supports. The keen focus is on reform leading to a coherent and consistent sector-wide demonstration of clearly high standards of competence that create a career pathway for a sustainable future workforce. Ultimately, the vision is for a profession that can both deliver quality and be effectively regulated.

The fire risk assessment sector has been involved in progressing professional improvements. Working with Government and others, the British Standards Institution has enabled individuals and organisations to manage, improve and demonstrate competency as part of the desire to create a safer built environment. That diligent work is illustrated by practical outcomes, including the publication of BS 8674:2025 Built Environment – Framework for Competence of Individual Fire Risk Assessors – Code of Practice.

Concentrating on the core role of fire risk assessment, the sector aim seeks to address the consultation’s underlying question: ‘How might a successful mandate operate in practice?’

Importantly, the sectoral view of the role and scope of the profession is that it cannot offer a ‘pass or fail’ for whether a building is ‘fire safe’, much as many owners might want such an outcome. The variations and complexities of building occupiers, usage, structures, materials, systems and engineering inevitably require a multidisciplinary approach and the engagement of other professions. It must be said that extending the profession’s scope risks weakening personal accountability.

Clear boundaries

If it’s to be regulated, competency requires clear boundaries. The view of the fire risk assessment sector is that three levels of demonstrated competence are practical and would sustain a safe profession. Nominally, remembering that the level of fire risk can only be fully assessed by undertaking the actual assessment, each of the three levels would match the majority of common building types that don’t require highly specialist skills, knowledge, experience or behaviours (SKEB).

Outlined in BS 8674, these three levels – ie Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced – express appropriate SKEB for each competence, which also aligns with the UK’s recognised accredited or certified competence. For example, an individual of Advanced level would be successful in an accreditation scheme, such as the BAFE SP205 Life Safety Fire Risk Assessment Scheme, itself recognised by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS).

Similarly, an individual operating at the Intermediate level would have appropriate Level 4 certification within the Regulated Qualification Framework (RQF), while someone at Foundation level, who could be a new starter or an apprentice (a scheme is being developed), would have RQF Level 2 or 3 certification. The sector has worked with Awarding Organisations and training bodies alike to ensure there’s widespread availability of these RQF qualifications as a key part of ensuring there’s sufficient capacity for a future regulated profession.

Enabling the transition and recognition of this competent workforce is vital since the unintended consequence of any failed transition is that of having a statutory requirement that cannot be fulfilled.

Using UKAS accreditation and RQF certification ensures that all qualifications are externally verifiable. Likewise, having a framework approach founded on a consensus-based British Standard places the onus on the individual to demonstrate competence and, if they’re part of an organisation, upon their organisation to ensure not only that they are competent (or supervised while gaining experience), but also that they maintain their competence and behave professionally at all times.

Requiring support

Some fire risk assessors own their business. As such, maintaining competence and oversight of professional behaviour requires support. Again, the sector’s professional bodies – the Institution of Fire Engineers and the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM), for example – have systems in place that assist these individuals. There’s also the model Code of Conduct, which is part of BS 8674.

Additional sector support for many individual and organisational fire risk assessors is also provided to those who are members of the Fire Industry Association (FIA) or the Fire Protection Association.

Right now, one sector initiative is very much focused on developing – alongside Skills England – a dedicated fire risk assessor apprenticeship. New starters are needed in an industry where over 65% of practitioners are aged over 50. This is no easy task, but through the IFSM and the FIA it’s pleasing to note that energy and pathfinder organisations have been found who are able and willing to build this essential new workforce of youngers. The fervent hope is to launch a new scheme at some point this year.

Ultimately, initiating the policy of implementation and regulation will be dependent upon the actions of Government. The sector considers that the transitional process outlined above offers a practical way forward, being soundly based on a developed thought process using three defined levels of competence.

Evolved over several years in partnership with Government, UKAS and RQF Awarding Organisations, stakeholders and the sector, it’s very much the case that steady, progressive and continuous progress has been made. What’s more, the professional commitment to make this mandate a success remains undiminished.

Having a sensibly phased introduction represented in the consultation Scenario 3, rather than a sudden ‘all change’ approach that would seriously challenge the fundamental ‘self-assessment’ basis of the Fire Safety Order itself, would allow ‘Responsible Persons’ and fire risk assessors the time to successfully adapt.

Dennis Davis CBE QFSM CEng is a Member of the Fire Risk Assessor Sector Group

*Access the Fire Risk Assessors Profession consultation online. The consultation closes on 18 June. Responses can be delivered online, via e-mail or in writing to Fire Risk Assessor Consultation, Attn: National Resilience and Fire Safety Division, Fry Building, 2 Marsham Street, Westminster, London SW1P 4DF

By raising the standards of responsible behaviour among all those practitioners working in the supply chain, and in doing so helping to support technical knowledge wherever possible, we – in unison with our partners and members – can make a difference when it comes to delivering the cultural change in the construction industry demanded by Dame Judith Hackitt in 2018.

Dame Judith’s Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety found the existing Building Regulations and fire safety regime were “not fit for purpose” and driven by a culture of cutting corners to complete projects quickly and cheaply rather than focusing on the core aspects of quality and safety.

The Independent Review concluded that changes to the regulatory regime would help, but on their own would not be sufficient unless we can move the culture away from one of doing the minimum required for compliance to one of taking ownership and assuming responsibility for delivering a safe system throughout the lifecycle of any given building.

Cultural change

At the outset, it would be opportune to examine what we mean by the term ‘cultural change’. Culture is defined as ‘how we do things around here’. In other words, it’s how a group of people think, feel and behave. Indeed, the behaviour and actions of Fire Aware’s own members are the cornerstones of our philosophy.

Only by standing by these behaviours across everything we do can we truly recognise the moral responsibility and Duty of Care we hold as responsible individuals in the fire safety industry.

My own experiences tell a story. Some local and newly occupied flats playing host to many families and individuals – and on which construction began in late 2016 with completion post-Grenfell in 2018 – were suddenly (and once again) shrouded in scaffolding. My prediction, and one that turned out to be correct, was that the solid-state cavity barriers in the external walls had been left out.

This stopped me in my tracks. How much warning and loss of life does it take to make the point about proper fire safety systems implementation and, therefore, prevention? I decided there and then to follow Dame Judith Hackitt’s words. In short: ‘Don’t wait. Do something.’

On a personal level, I started to create what’s now Fire Aware: a growing body of members and like-minded individuals who want to make sure the process is absolutely right. The principles of Fire Aware apply to all sectors of relevance, and this includes those operating across industries beyond fire safety with an inherent responsibility to protect people and the buildings they inhabit. These sectors include – but are not limited to – healthcare (where, of course, vulnerable people are involved), hospitality and the leisure sector (ie hotels, restaurants and bars), as well as stadiums and retail where people congregate for different reasons.

Building Safety Regulator

On 27 January, the Building Safety Regulator left the Health and Safety Executive to become a standalone executive non-departmental public body sponsored by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The Building Safety Regulator has also stepped in with its own call for cultural change: “Much more progress needs to be made if we are to change the mindset and behaviours of industry, in other words ‘industry culture’, and drive up the safety and standards of buildings to prevent future tragedies from occurring, while also restoring public trust.”

Legislation, mainly in the form of the Building Safety Act 2022 and its requirements, has added weight, but also some confusion as supply chains seek to understand and meet the demands within.

The Building Safety Act established three gateways at key stages in design and construction. Gateway 2 applies before building works start and applications must demonstrate to the Building Safety Regulator how the design proposals comply with Building Regulations requirements.

During 2025, the construction industry faced significant backlogs in the Gateway 2 system, which were stalling several hundred higher-risk building projects at a time. Since then, the new Innovation Unit has speeded up applications and started to clear the backlog.

The call by Fire Aware cuts across sectors and extends beyond construction and allied industries. We’ve asked for change and now we are seeing it in action, albeit that it’s demanding and challenging for many. Beyond that, we also offer a series of charters for the various groups of members and a Code of Conduct, which helps guide us all through the requirements being rightly demanded and expected of those working in the built environment domain.

Responsibility in the mix

The thread of cultural change resides with those meeting their Duty of Care. Fire safety is a vocation. It’s a way of thinking that comes with responsibility and a requirement to consider the safety of people.

This cultural way of working resides with all those practising in the fire safety supply chain including designers, developers, asset owners, managers and other key stakeholders.

We understand the need for competence, but when dealing with an industry upon which members of the public rely to keep them safe, there has to be more than that. There has to be a demonstrated commitment to safety. As is true of a number of other sectors and professions, the fire sector harbours a wide array of duty holders, but they all share one common requirement: primarily, they exist to keep the public safe.

We are appealing to the fire safety industry (and those with responsibility for making key decisions) to think about their moral duty from the outset of any project. Thanks to the feedback we receive from our members, we know that the industry is keen to make this work. We believe in going above and beyond legislation, minimum standards and test regimes.

We’re witnessing a growing interest in our organisation and what it stands for. Membership is developing quickly and those joining our ranks all want to adhere to Best Practice. We’re seeking to shift the culture of the built environment sector both morally and technically. We believe in setting standards. Members of the Fire Aware community are taking a stand.

For example, Julian Day (managing director of certified Fire Aware member 3B Fire Consultancy, which is part of the Plus Group of companies) expressed the view of many members when he said: “We want to do things the right way and for the right reasons. We’ve been an advocate of Fire Aware since its inception and continue to embrace its ethos.”

Day continued: “We provide a comprehensive range of consultancy services to help ensure the safety and compliance of buildings with fire safety regulations. Specialising in consultation services for fire protection and risk assessment within the sector, we sometimes simply spend time helping to guide clients or those who need assistance.”

He concluded: “Ultimately, we want to keep people safe and make sure that our clients are on the right side of the law at the same time. We’re proud to be associated with Fire Aware.”

Visible moral position

The visible moral position of member companies can also be performance tested, ensuring the services they provide are in line with their moral undertakings. Underperformance can be monitored by the Fire Aware organisation and agreed action taken in the event of consistent disregard for the safety of those who inhabit the buildings we create and manage.

All members must abide by and comply with the law and regulations that are relevant within their specialism in addition to the Fire Aware Code of Conduct.

Supporting the Code, Fire Aware’s series of charters apply to main contractors, property developers, building management, designers, local councils, specialist contractors and sub-contractors.

The Fire Aware Charter conditions don’t seek to override any legal obligations as imposed by those of sector-specific professions. The charters ask the member business to consider the safety of the end user and to go above and beyond minimum standards in order to promote an enthusiasm within the member business that identifies itself as one that cares.

Further, Fire Aware’s members provide training courses relating to fire safety and management relevant for designers, main contractors, domestic trades, material suppliers, building management, hotel and leisure operators, commercial and private landlords and local authorities.

Fire Aware is a recognised membership body serving the built environment and related sectors with a common aim of working responsibly to Best Practice standards in the interests of the safety of the general public.

We’re asking any organisation considering how to improve their moral and technical standards of operation in the built environment to reach out to us for more information and become involved on the road to cultural change.

Gavin Skelly is CEO of Fire Aware (www.fireaware.org)

*Created in 2019 to heighten awareness of fire safety responsibilities in the built environment, Fire Aware comprises membership groups encompassing local authorities, private developers, asset owners, designers, main contractors, sub-contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, landlords and building operators

Sometimes referred to as retained firefighters, on-call firefighters are typically employed in other jobs and respond to incidents when alerted. They commit to remaining within a few minutes of their local Fire Station for a set number of hours each week so that they can respond to emergencies when called upon to do so. The on-call duty system covers around 90% of the UK landmass and provides the backbone of fire cover in rural and lower-risk areas.

Drawing on data collected from Fire and Rescue Services all over the UK, responses from over 1,600 on-call firefighters, Case Studies from each of the four nations and comparisons with international and other UK sectors, the study explored whether the on-call duty system remains fit for purpose. While attention and action are needed to address increasing pressures, on-call firefighters are absolutely vital for keeping communities safe.

However, dwindling numbers, persistent recruitment and retention difficulties and training requirements predominantly designed around full-time standards are serving to undermine long-term resilience.

The report sets out a spectrum of options for change, ranging from incremental local improvement through to fundamental sector-wide reform.

Acting on recommendations

Having commissioned the review with the support of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, the NFCC has welcomed its findings and already embarked on work designed to take forward the recommendations, particularly so those that fall directly within its remit.

The NFCC will also work closely with Fire and Rescue Services to better understand what’s viable for them to deliver locally, all the while recognising that lasting change must balance national co-ordination with local context, governance and resourcing.

Phil Garrigan OBE KFSM, chair of the NFCC, said:  “The on‑call duty system has served communities across the UK for generations, made possible by the commitment, skill and professionalism of on‑call firefighters who balance public service with their own lives beyond the Fire Station. It remains a cost‑effective and community‑rooted model of fire cover.”

Garrigan continued: “The findings of this study are clear about the pressures the system now faces, and also about the need for co‑ordinated action. Our focus must be on working alongside Fire and Rescue Services, Government, representative bodies and on‑call firefighters themselves, recognising their unique contribution so that the system continues to protect the public it serves.”

Reflections of reality

Steve Healey, the NFCC’s national on-call lead and Deputy Chief Fire Officer for the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, stated: “I want to thank every firefighter, leader and stakeholder who contributed to this research. Their honesty has shaped a study that reflects the reality of on-call work today, particularly so in rural areas.”

In conclusion, Healey observed: “There is no single fix and meaningful progress will take time, but it’s very much the case that the evidence base for change is now stronger than it has ever been.”

*Further information is available online at www.nfcc.org.uk

In the six-page publication’s introduction, Fire Sector Confederation chair John Spencer notes that the organisation has taken up its place as “the principal representative, convening and governance body across the UK’s fire and building safety landscape” and boasts an “emerging Parliamentary influence” with the successful reset of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Fire and Rescue being an important step forward.

Further, Spencer states: “There are challenges ahead and the Trustees are well aware of the need to build a more secure and recurring funding base. However, the partnerships now being agreed with leading organisations in the sector and the many constructive conversations underway give us real confidence that the funding model will evolve to reflect the value the Confederation delivers. In addition, we are also looking to expand and broaden the base of Trustees.”

Detailed appraisal

Steve McGuirk CBE QFSM DL, executive director of the Fire Sector Confederation, delivers and extensive and detailed report that frames the document.

“The last year has been a period of sustained and, in many respects, accelerating activity,” observes McGuirk, “as the Confederation has moved from the foundational work of establishing a new charity into the more demanding task of delivering real value, building genuine influence and securing its long-term future. The overall picture is positive.”

Embellishing that last point, McGuirk comments: “The Confederation is now a recognised and increasingly influential body across the fire and building safety landscape. It has developed credible relationships with key sector organisations, Government departments and parliamentarians. The Consultations Network remains one of its most distinctive and valued assets. Through the aforementioned All-Party Parliamentary Group on Fire and Rescue, the Confederation now has a genuine pathway into the heart of Government.”

The Confederation remains in a relatively stable short-term position of 18 months to two years, though long-term sustainability remains the major strategic challenge. Membership and grant income have allowed continued safe operation, while the organisation is now in a stronger position than at the point of transition. The final grant from the Fire Research and Training Trust has been received. The overarching aim is to establish a secure annual funding position targeting a range of £250,000 to £300,000 per annum. Achieving this goal would also enable a more sustainable footing for contracted personnel.

Priorities for 2026-2027

*Secure stable core funding arrangements

*Expand strategic partnerships across the fire chain

*Develop the knowledge networks and digital hub

*Progress the meetings tracker and stakeholder mapping

*Build on the relationship with the All-Party Parliamentary Group

*Co-ordinate strategically important consultations

*Launch the Fire Futures concept

*Strengthen governance, compliance and administrative capacity

*Demonstrate visible value to members, partners and founders

In terms of the Fire Futures concept, this centres on working with CROSS-UK to develop a coherent and forward-looking programme that addresses emerging threats (including climate change, new technologies, lithium-ion batteries, modern methods of construction and workforce challenges). There’s a broader fire research alliance meeting taking place at the University of Chester in June.

*Further information is available online at www.firesectorconfederation.co.uk

With strong visitor numbers throughout, the Trade Association’s stand at the NEC became a central hub for networking, collaboration and conversation, welcoming members, partners and industry professionals old and new.

Reflecting on the three days in Birmingham from 28-30 April, the FIA’s events manager Ryan Brassil said: “The Fire Safety Event 2026 was a fantastic opportunity to bring the industry together once again. We were incredibly proud of the FIA’s presence this year, from the level of engagement at our stand through to the success of the Guidance Theatre and the Newcomer of the Year competition.”

A standout feature of this year’s event was indeed the FIA’s Newcomer of the Year competition, which generated significant attention and discussion throughout the exhibition. The competition showcased the incredible talent, professionalism and enthusiasm of individuals entering the fire industry, duly highlighting the importance of supporting and developing future talent within the sector.

Emma Francioli, technical officer at the FIA, praised the commitment and professionalism shown throughout the competition. Francioli noted: “What stood out most throughout the competition was the level of care, focus and professionalism shown by every participant. Although early in their careers, the individuals involved approached each task with patience, diligence and real attention to detail. Competency matters when it comes to fire safety and it was genuinely encouraging to see such a strong understanding of the importance of working carefully, taking responsibility and making sure everything’s right.”

FIA Guidance Theatre

Alongside the competition, the FIA’s Guidance Theatre once again proved to be a key attraction during The Fire Safety Event, delivering a programme of expert-led sessions featuring a mix of FIA representatives, FIA Council members and industry experts from across the fire sector.

The Guidance Theatre afforded visitors valuable insight, practical guidance and informed discussion on many of the key issues currently shaping the fire sector.

Speaking about the success of the Guidance Theatre, Will Lloyd (head of technical at the FIA) observed: “The FIA’s Guidance Theatre once again delivered an excellent platform for sharing knowledge and practical guidance with the industry. The quality of speakers and the engagement from attendees throughout the event was exceptional. It was fantastic to see so many meaningful discussions taking place and such strong interest in the important topics affecting fire safety professionals today.”

Team effort

The FIA recognises the tremendous efforts of the entire FIA team, whose hard work and dedication behind the scenes helped to make The Fire Safety Event such a success. From planning and logistics to delivering activities across the stand, the theatre and the competition areas, the team worked tirelessly to ensure a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Ryan Brassil added: “It was brilliant to see so many people connecting, learning and sharing ideas. A huge thank you goes to everyone involved: our team, sponsors, speakers and visitors, all of whom helped to make it such a memorable few days.”

The FIA would also like to extend a sincere thank you to all sponsors, speakers, partners and supporters who contributed to this year’s edition of The Fire Safety Event and helped make it one of the most successful to date.

Nineteen Group – organiser of The Fire Safety Event – has issued compelling statistics underpinning this year’s iteration of the trade show. Across the three days in Birmingham, there were upwards of 13,000 attendees and 279 exhibiting businesses.

The Fire Safety Event 2027 runs at the NEC in Birmingham from 27-29 April.

*Further information is available online at www.fia.uk.com

Highlights to 1 May 2026 (12-week rolling period)

*Across all categories, 323 Gateway 2 decisions were made by the Building Safety Regulator in the 12 weeks to 1 May, with a 71% approval rate. 62% of all decisions across all categories related to London cases

*New applications representing 12,426 residential units were received and applications representing 17,046 housing units determined, of which 12,299 were approvals. There are currently 36,984 units in live cases

*73% of decisions (ie 24 out of 33) made by the Innovation Unit in the last 12 weeks were approvals with 14 of those approvals in London (representing a 100% approval rate in the capital), which also reflects the ongoing work focused around complex cases. All time Innovation Unit approvals now stand at 33, with a median approval time of 22 weeks

*Following the introduction of the Building Safety Regulator’s External Remediation Improvement Plan in the past month, 20 legacy remediation applications from 2024 now remain, which is down from 42 at the beginning of 2026. A further 12 applications are on track to be determined in mid-May

*Operational enhancements and intensive application refinement have seen remediation approval rates already approaching the minimum 65% target for 2026

New-build approvals rise

New-build applications continue to move through the Innovation Unit with a growing number of decisions and a rising approval rate.

The Building Safety Regulator continues to work closely with industry on consistency as it seeks to reduce the number of complex cases in the system. The Innovation Unit is currently managing 143 live applications (representing 27,900 units).

Progress on external remediation

External remediation-driven guidance was published in the past month alongside improved feedback and support provided to applicants. Further resources and support will be introduced this year.

The Building Safety Regulator also continues to work closely with the sector to help applicants improve the quality of applications. Data shows that applications submitted in 2026 are progressing through the system much more rapidly than earlier applications. The average approval time was 25 weeks in a rolling 12-week period, which reflects the older 2024-2025 applications now being concluded.

Capital accounts for 62% of recent decisions

London decisions continue to be the majority of all closed cases. Over the past 12 weeks, 62% of all decisions across all Gateway 2 categories were for projects located in the capital. During this period, 383 applications were closed in the capital, with 437 new applications received.

Currently, 64% of all live Innovation Unit applications are based in London, representing 57% of the overall residential units that the Innovation Unit is handling. The total number of live London applications across all categories is 849.

Assessments in four weeks

Across all three major categories – new-build, remediation and refurbishment – the median time from a case being issued to a supplier to a full assessment being returned is just four weeks under the Building Safety Regulator’s batching process.

*254 new-build cases have been issued through batching, with 43 decisions (of the 87 returned to date) reached at a median time of nine weeks from issue to supplier to decision. This includes the time required for the Building Safety Regulator to consider the assessment and make a decision

*408 remediation cases have been issued, with 33 decisions (of the 140 returned) at a median time of ten weeks

*For refurbishment, 758 cases have been issued to the batching process so far. 82 decisions (of the 321 returned) have also been reached at a median time of eleven weeks

The data shows that batching is proving effective in speeding up early assessment and decision-making. As rejections are often early decisions, the Building Safety Regulator therefore sees a relatively high proportion of rejections from the batching process. This is expected to drop and approach the steady-state shown in the rolling 12-week numbers as more batching applications flow through to reach approval.

The batching process scales capacity by bundling applications to specialised external suppliers for accelerated assessment, with the Building Safety Regulator maintaining full regulatory oversight.

Long-term and transitional cases

The Building Safety Regulator has reduced the number of legacy, long-term cases to eight. These have significant technical challenges and have been managed as ‘complex cases’ since February.

This is where account managers work closely with applicants to try to achieve a successful outcome. These are no longer reflected in the Innovation Unit data as they’re being reported on separately.

Transitional cases have risen to 43 after the Building Safety Regulator was required to accept HRB projects previously being managed by Assent Building Control, which ceased trading in late 2025.

Significantly faster decision times

Charlie Pugsley, acting CEO of the Building Safety Regulator, said: “We are continuing to see positive improvements in the number of approvals for both new-build and existing building remediation cases, as well as significantly faster decision times. This includes positive results within our Innovation Unit from working closely with applicants to resolve complex technical challenges and then seeing a growing number of decisions and rising approval rates.”

Pugsley continued: “We are also making important improvements following the recent introduction of our External Remediation Improvement Plan. 12 of the remaining 20 legacy applications received in 2024 are set to have decisions made by mid-May, which will see this cohort of applications reduced to single figures.”

Further, Pugsley noted: “Even more encouraging is the fact that our remediation approval rates are already approaching our minimum 65% target for the year, although we are not being complacent and recognise that people living in unremediated buildings want them to be fixed, safely and at pace.”

In conclusion, Pugsley stated: “We are working to accelerate our assessments, decisions and approvals, ensuring that industry can construct safe buildings so that thousands of residents see the essential safety improvements they deserve. We remain steadfastly committed to ensuring that accelerated decision-making must never come at the cost of building safety.”

*Building Control approval application data to 1 May 2026

The research behind it – published by Halliwell Fire Research on behalf of the Fire Protection Research Foundation – examines how mass timber buildings perform after a sprinkler-suppressed fire.

Stop and think about what that original headline was actually claiming. If a system that intervenes early, limits fire growth and controls structural damage is now being treated as a problem in itself, what would be proposed in its place?

The Fire and Rescue Service will attend, but they arrive later, when a fire is larger and the volumes of water they deploy are far greater. If the concern is water ingress into CLT connections, the answer is not fewer sprinklers. That path leads to more water, applied to a building far more seriously damaged by fire.

Jim Glockling, visiting professor at UCLAN and a respected voice in fire engineering, made exactly this point in response to the research on LinkedIn. The right comparison, he argued, is not sprinklers versus nothing. It’s the small, targeted volumes that sprinkler heads local to the fire put down very early, when the fire is still small, versus the quantities the Fire and Rescue Service might apply late in an event when the fire is bigger and may have spread.

On that basis, Glockling concluded: “To this end, I see fire sprinklers as an essential component of water damage reduction, not the problem. Quantities are small and known and easily recovered from.”

Moisture challenge

The moisture challenge that follows suppression is real and worth investigating seriously. Better post-fire drying protocols, connection detailing that reduces water trapping nd clearer assessment procedures are all productive directions.

These are design and management refinements, though. They sharpen how we use active fire protection. They don’t make the case against it.

There is, however, a much deeper issue in play here. If mass timber is sensitive enough to water that post-fire sprinkler discharge warrants this level of concern, what does that tell us about the water risks already present in these buildings which go unnoticed?

Plumbing and drainage failures, condensation within structural elements, roof and cladding water ingress, escape-of-water events: all carry no sprinkler activation, no incident report and no obvious trigger for investigation.

If water sensitivity in mass timber is the concern, that’s where the headlines should be directed, not at the systems protecting us from fire.

Environmental credentials

As the construction sector embraces mass timber for its environmental credentials and structural qualities, we must be honest about the additional layers of protection these buildings require. The use of combustible materials in innovative construction introduces fire risks that, if not addressed with equal care, can undermine all of the gains made in sustainability.

That balance can be struck, of course, but only when resilience is valued alongside the other objectives for which we are designing.

Sprinklers are not the problem, as this research reveals. They are part of the answer to a set of questions the mass timber sector is beginning to ask properly.

The question we should now be asking is not how we protect buildings from their own suppression systems. The focus should be on how to make the most of the active fire protection systems that need to be installed.

Tom Roche is Secretary of the Business Sprinkler Alliance (www.business-sprinkler-alliance.org)

The course has been developed by Local Authority Building Control (LABC) in collaboration with fire engineering specialists at the University of Edinburgh, CROSS-UK, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and the Smoke Control Association, as well as fire engineering consultancies Design Fire Consultants, The Fire Surgery, OFR Consultants and PartB.

Delivered via eleven half-day virtual workshops, the new course covers a range of topics including an overview of BS 7974 (the British Standard that provides the framework for applying fire safety engineering principles), Computational Fluid Dynamics, PAS 8700 and modern methods of construction, structural fire engineering, smoke ventilation and clearance, accessible means of egress and working with existing buildings.

Continued emphasis

Lorna Stimpson, CEO of LABC, informed Fire Safety Matters: “There’s a continued emphasis on improving the competence of all construction professionals to drive up safety standards across the industry. This course has been put together to ensure that anyone interacting with fire engineering has the knowledge to confidently assess and challenge the information that’s given to them. We need the industry, and professionals within it, to reach a place whereby they can ensure safer outcomes for every person in every building.”

Originally launched in October, LABC has recently had the course accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building so that attendees gain a Level 6 certificate upon successful completion of the final assessment.

Speaking about his experience of attending the course, Matt Canham (fire engineer at the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service representing the NFCC) said: “I’ve been taken on a fire engineering journey based on competent and ethical practice. I have taken so much from this course that will inform how I carry out my regulatory role on a daily basis. It has given me the confidence and knowledge to ask those fundamental questions.”

Existing suite

This latest offering from LABC adds to its existing suite of award-winning training courses created specifically for the wider construction industry including ‘Safety at Sports Grounds and other Events’, ‘Building Regulation Compliance’, ‘Building Regulation Application’ and ‘Building Regulation Inspections’.

*The first CIOB Level 6 Certificate in Principles of Fire Engineering course starts on 6 May. A second course will begin on 8 October

**Further information is available online at www.labc.co.uk/events/level-6-ciob-certificate-fire-engineering-principles-2

***Additional detail concerning LABC can be accessed at www.labc.co.uk

In his most recent role as the CEO of the Institute of Learning, Adams strengthened governance arrangements, rebuilt organisational confidence and embedded a strong culture of Continuing Professional Development.

To date, Adams’ career has encompassed senior leadership roles at the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, the Institute of Directors and the Civil Mediation Council, duly equipping him with a broad strategic perspective and a strong track record of organisational leadership.

Paul Stollard, chair of the IFE’s Board of Trustee Directors, said: “We are delighted to welcome Paul as our new CEO. With a wealth of experience gained by leading membership organisations and global professional bodies, he brings a deep understanding of how to support, represent and add value for members in an increasingly complex world.”

Stollard added: “Paul’s proven leadership, strategic insight and commitment to member engagement will be invaluable as we look to the future and continue to strengthen the IFE’s impact for members and the fire safety sector.”

Important role

Commenting on his appointment, Paul Adams observed: “The IFE plays a uniquely important role in advancing professional standards and public confidence in a field where the consequences of failure are profound. I’m honoured to be joining the organisation at what is such a pivotal time for fire safety on the global stage.”

Adams continued: “During my military service, I saw first-hand the devastating impact fire can have on people, families and communities. That experience has remained with me and underpins my commitment to the IFE’s mission.”

Going forward, Adams’ focus will be on strengthening the Institution’s impact by supporting and amplifying the expertise of its members, ensuring that the IFE continues to lead in setting standards, shaping policy and influencing the global fire safety agenda. “Together,” urged Adams, “we will build on the IFE’s strong heritage to enable fire professionals to shape a safer world.”

In conclusion, Adams explained: “I would like to thank Steve Hamm for his leadership in moving the organisation forward and for the strong platform he has created in relation to the next phase of the IFE’s development.”

Continued commitment

This appointment reflects the IFE’s continued commitment to creating a future world that’s safer from fire. Adams’ leadership will be instrumental as the Institution furthers its mission to empower members by continuously expanding their knowledge and experience, providing valuable opportunities and supporting their professional growth through their careers.

Adams formally joins the IFE on 18 May. Outgoing CEO Steve Hamm will move into the role of strategic advisor on a part-time basis, ensuring continuity by supporting Adams and assisting with a smooth leadership transition.

*Further information is available online at www.ife.org.uk