The fire safety regulatory environment has transformed significantly following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017, presenting major challenges for Facilities Management teams
Key changes include the introduction of PAS79 legislation in 2020 and the Fire Safety Act in the UK, with the critical shift from ‘guide’ to ‘code of practice’ formalising substantial compliance requirements.
Adding to these challenges are requirements such as PAS1 and PAS2, which focus on fire risk assessment procedures for residential properties and specialised facilities. These standards demand more thorough documentation and frequent assessments.
While essential for safety, these enhanced requirements create significant resource pressures for Facilities Management teams that are already balancing multiple priorities. Adding sustainability objectives presents further complexity, as teams must consider how fire safety measures impact building energy performance, material selection and overall environmental footprint.
Progressive facilities managers are adopting integrated approaches to address these dual challenges. Digital compliance management systems enable more efficient monitoring of fire safety requirements while supporting sustainability reporting.
Selecting fire-resistant materials with sustainable attributes helps address both requirements simultaneously. Training programmes that cover both fire safety compliance and sustainability best practices create a more holistic approach to building management.
The most successful approaches recognise that fire safety and sustainability are not competing priorities but rather complementary aspects of responsible building management.
SOCOTEC is increasingly providing specialised consultancy services that address these requirements, helping clients navigate complex regulations while meeting sustainability goals – not only ensuring compliance but also giving opportunity for innovation in building design and management.
By investing in proper training, innovative technologies, and integrated management systems, facilities teams can transform these complex challenges into opportunities for operational excellence.
This is an abridged article. Read the full version on SOCOTEC’s website here.
Visit our services to find out more about the fire standards, as well as how we at SOCOTEC can help.
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