INFORMATION
The briefing
NEWS AND VIEWS FROM THE INDUSTRY
Wales puts safety first
FEBRUARY 2021
T
BUILDING ENGINEER
6
he Welsh Government has published updated editions of Approved Document B (Fire safety) volumes 1 and 2, including changes to Appendix A (Assessment in lieu of tests) and an updated edition of Regulation 7 (Materials and Workmanship). The Approved Document has been amended to strengthen the requirements when providing assessments in lieu of fire tests. The amendment specifies three routes to demonstrate compliance. The previous provision listed a number of ways to demonstrate performance; the revised provision has generalised the test methodologies, and the specific routes that were previously mentioned all fall within the three revised routes for compliance. The amendments to the Approved Documents ensure that assessments should not be regarded as a way to avoid a test where one is necessary. In addition, the Minister for Housing and Local Government has announced the launch of Safer Buildings in Wales: A Consultation. The minister is keen to hear all views on the issues explored in the White Paper, and, as such, the closing date for responses is 12 April 2021.
Read the Approved Document B here gov.wales/amendments-approved-documentswgc-0102020-html
Ongoing Grenfell inquiry
I
n January 2021, the Grenfell inquiry was suspended because of rising Covid-19 infections in London. It had been operating in person, but with minimal attendance. The three-strong inquiry panel, witnesses and lawyers for the inquiry were the only people at the premises, along with a support team. The planned restart this month, with remote hearings using
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computer links, was originally opposed by the bereaved and survivors panel, because of concern that witnesses giving evidence via computer link could be coached in their answers. However, the panel decided “it is better to have remote hearings than no hearings at all while the current restrictions are in place”. The inquiry is due to start again this month
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Details on Safer Buildings can be found at: gov.wales/safer-buildings-wales
19/01/2021 14:14
