Building safety publications in Scotland – two handbooks and a call for evidence

The Compliance Plan Approach remains under development and was introduced following significant building safety concerns, including the Grenfell Tower fire and structural issues identified in schools in Edinburgh.

The CPA is designed to be applied proportionately to projects requiring a building warrant and is initially focused on buildings classified in Scotland as High-Risk Buildings (HRBs*). The approach also introduces a new dutyholder role, the Compliance Plan Manager (CPM), which has not yet been incorporated into primary legislation.

The two published documents are intended to support both industry and building control verifiers in implementing Phase 1 of the CPA:

• Verification During Construction – High Risk Buildings – Verifiers Guidance to Support Implementation of Phase 1 of Compliance Plan Approach
  This guidance sets out the steps verifiers are expected to follow when processing building warrant applications and completion certificates for defined HRBs as part of Phase 1 implementation.

• Verification During Construction – High Risk Buildings – The Compliance Plan Approach – Background and Implementation
  This document provides background information and outlines the strengthened process for building warrant applications relating to HRBs. It describes the anticipated role of the Compliance Plan Manager, outlines which projects are in scope, explains relevant roles within the CPA, and provides information on the Compliance Plan and its implementation. It is intended to help local authority verifiers and industry prepare in advance of potential legislative changes.

Alongside these publications, a Call for Evidence – Fire Safety Review and Compliance has been issued, closing on 10 April. The review focuses on Section 2 (Fire) of the Building Standards and seeks views on the effectiveness of existing provisions across building types. It invites feedback on challenges in meeting fire safety standards and on opportunities to improve the clarity, content and application of related guidance. The Call for Evidence also seeks views on aspects of the developing Compliance Plan Approach for HRBs where changes may be considered.

Association for Project Safety (APS) has been engaging with the Building Standards Division on the development of the Compliance Plan Approach, including the proposed Compliance Plan Manager role, and is considering its response to the consultation.

* In Scotland, High-Risk Buildings include residential buildings with any storey over 11 metres above ground; educational institutions (schools, colleges and universities); hospitals and residential care facilities; community and sports centres; and non-domestic buildings under local authority control or interest.