BSI publishes framework for construction product safety

On the back of government announcements to improve the strength of construction products, the British Standards Institution has published PAS 2000

The proposed framework for construction product safety standards has been created in co-operation with the Office for Product Safety and Standards.

The framework provides guidelines for product manufacturers to take measures to create safe products suitable for use.

The Grenfell Inquiry informed the framework’s creation

This framework followed recommendations from the Testing for a Safer Future report by Morrell/Day, the Grenfell Inquiry final report, and the government’s White Paper on construction product reform.

Ian Richardson, sector lead at BSI, said: “This publication reflects our clear commitment to responding constructively to the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and Morrell-Day Review, and to supporting safety across the built environment.

“At a time of significant regulatory reform, PAS 2000 has been developed to support greater transparency, accountability and due diligence across the supply chain. By setting clear expectations and good practice, manufacturers and other economic operators should be empowered to embed robust product safety governance and align with evolving regulatory requirements. We encourage organizations across the built environment sector to engage with the standard and support its adoption.”

The framework can be found in full here.

Most of the Grenfell recommendations are expected to be completed this year

Earlier this week, the government’s White Paper was accompanied by an annual report which provided an update on recommendations from the Grenfell inquiry and estimated that 70% of them will be completed by the end of 2026.
Part of this is assessing construction products, currently about a third of which are checked before use, but new regulations will see every product checked for safety and suitability.

Housing secretary, Steve Reed, said: “The Grenfell fire was a tragedy that must never be repeated.

“Everyone should feel safe in their home. We are making progress implementing the Inquiry recommendations, but there is more to do as we continue to learn and act on the mistakes of the past.”

Minister for building safety, fire and democracy, Samantha Dixon, said: “We will never forget the tragedy of Grenfell and will continue working with the local community, industry and local authorities to deliver safer homes and lasting change.

“The failings outlined by the inquiry exposed fundamental issues in product, building and fire safety standards and through the Construction Products White Paper and our work to implement all the recommendations of the inquiry, we will create a better system for millions of people across the country.”

Source: PBC Today