The government has today launched a consultation as part of its commitment to introduce mandatory certification for fire risk assessors in the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.
Fire risk assessors perform a critical role in ensuring fire safety. Fire risk assessments help ensure hazards are identified and the right fire precautions delivered to keep people safe in the buildings where they live, work, and visit. At present, Responsible Persons (usually the owner or landlord) can undertake their own fire risk assessments or may appoint someone, known as a fire risk assessor, to assist them in doing so. The consultation is looking at strengthening standards, ensuring those who conduct assessments have the proper competencies and capabilities to do so.
The consultation is also an important step in delivering Recommendation 26 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report, in response to which Government committed to establish a mandatory certification system for fire risk assessors.
Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Democracy Samantha Dixon said:
“Fire risk assessors play a vital role keeping our communities safe from fires.
“I would strongly encourage you to respond to this consultation, to help us introduce the right measures to make sure we have consistent competency across the profession.”
The consultation seeks views on proposals relating to:
- defining the role of fire risk assessors and their protected assistance duties.
- considering the Responsible Person’s ability to conduct their own assessments.
- developing a competency framework and standards, with robust methods of verifying competence.
- establishing clear career pathways, through proposals for apprenticeships and a proficient workers scheme.
- providing appropriate regulatory powers and ensuring effective implementation of measures.
The consultation launched today and will run for 12 weeks, closing on 18 June. The consultation can be found here – Fire risk assessors profession - GOV.UK
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