Building Materials Need Attention, UK Finds

The U.K. needs to improve its oversight of building materials and practices, according to a December report from the nation's Department for Communities and Local Government. The review was in response to Grenfell apartment tower fire last summer in London. It resulted in 71 deaths, and its rapid spread was attributed to cladding used on the exterior.

The new report (bit.ly/2lTgqLL) found:

• Regulations and related guidances are complex and unclear. "This can lead to confusion and misinterpretation."

 

• Responsibilities for issues like design, construction, and maintenance are unclear. "Even where there are requirements for key activities…it is not always clear who has responsibility for making it happen."

 

• Competency of those working at various levels lacks underlying requirements, especially for complex buildings.

 

• Enforcement is weak, including lack of "robust controls."

 

• Product Testing lacks clear methods.