In March, our studio team stepped into the world of compliance, with a CPD-accredited seminar designed by designers, for designers. Over four hours, we explored the practical realities of the Building Safety Act 2022 – from domestic projects to high-risk buildings – guided by leading voices in structural, fire, and safety engineering.
What struck us most wasn’t just the wealth of technical insight, but the moments that made us rethink how we approach design and safety in every project. From standout advice from experts Elena Re, Veronica Fiore, Fabrizio Fortunato, and Simone Pinna-Nossai, to discussions that challenged the way we consider risk and regulation, the seminar left a lasting impression.
We asked our team to reflect on their experience and the takeaways they’ll carry into the studio.
1. What made you want to attend the seminar on the Building Safety Act 2022, and what were you hoping to learn from it?
Although High Risk Buildings (HRB) are not our usual field of work, the Building Regulations and responsibilities for fire safety have changed considerably and are still changing. It is important to understand as a minimum the nature of the responsibility and our level of exposure to risk should we be asked to take on a relevant project.
2. Was there a moment or insight during the talks that really stuck with you or changed the way you think about building safety?
Since the transition from Approved Inspector to Registered Building Control Approver (RBCA), this role for non HRB is for compliance only. RBCA are no longer supposed to assist with advice and cannot ‘participate in design’. Clients, designers, and contractors have the responsibility to demonstrate compliance to the RBCA.
3. The seminar covered everything from domestic projects to high-risk buildings – what was the most interesting topic discussed by the speakers?
It was useful to hear about the Simplified Gateway 2 scheme, which should help us to do projects works to individual flats in HRBs.
4. Hearing from experts like Elena Re, Veronica Fiore, Fabrizio Fortunato and Simone Pinna-Nossai, was there a piece of advice or perspective that stood out to you?
Everyone in the system is learning. The client culture has for a long time been to build cheapest and fastest. What we need is a culture that wants to change, and we should play our part in nurturing this culture. Everything will become easier.
5. What’s one thing you’re taking away from the event that could influence how we approach projects in the studio?
“You are part of the big game, and you have to build your confidence.”
