A closer look at cladding and compliance
The conversation around building safety and sustainability has taken centre stage in the construction industry. With recent projects involving critical cladding work, we at Octane Construction are deeply committed to ensuring the highest standards in safety and environmental impact. Let’s explore how the Building Safety Act and decarbonisation initiatives are shaping the future of construction.
Building Safety Act 2022: Raising the Bar for Safer Structures
In response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy and the urgent need for safety in residential and high-rise buildings, the Building Safety Act 2022 was introduced in England and Wales. This legislation addresses “higher-risk buildings” (HRBs), putting a strict regulatory framework in place to ensure safer construction and occupancy.
Key highlights include:
Three ‘Gateway’ Stages: HRBs must meet standards at each of these stages—planning, construction, and completion—overseen by the newly created Building Safety Regulator (BSR) within the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
- Golden Thread of Information: This critical, up-to-date information about the building is maintained throughout its lifecycle, helping all involved parties stay informed and accountable.
- Increased Liability for Developers: Construction firms and product manufacturers now face greater responsibility for both current and historic safety defects, with protections for leaseholders against the costs of remediation. This shift towards proactive safety measures is redefining accountability within the industry, and at Octane Construction, we’re committed to leading the charge in adhering to and exceeding these standards.
- Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS): Addressing Fire Risks One of the significant measures introduced under the new safety regime is the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS), which covers the cost of eliminating life-threatening fire risks posed by cladding in residential buildings over 11 meters. This scheme ensures that both new and existing buildings receive the attention they need to prioritise safety.
At Octane Construction, we recently completed a cladding project that not only adhered to CSS guidelines but also underscored the importance of a reliable, skilled team to execute such essential safety work. For property owners and developers, understanding and complying with these standards is crucial—not only to meet regulations but also to protect lives.
Decarbonisation in Construction
Meeting Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards As the industry moves toward a more sustainable future, decarbonising buildings has become essential. The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) set an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating of E for rented residential and commercial buildings in England and Wales, with plans to tighten this to a B rating for commercial buildings by 2030.
While there’s uncertainty around the timing of stricter standards, there’s no question about their importance.
At Octane Construction, we understand that achieving energy-efficient standards not only benefits the environment but also makes buildings more attractive to investors and tenants.
With government consultations and shifting timelines, it’s a dynamic space, but Octane is here to help guide property owners through the evolving regulations and the practicalities of decarbonisation.
Why Building Safety and Decarbonisation Matter to Us
For Octane Construction, building safety and sustainable practices are more than compliance; they’re a commitment to a safer, more environmentally responsible future. Our recent projects and investments in cladding and energy-efficient building techniques demonstrate our dedication to leading by example in the construction industry.
Whether it’s securing HRB compliance or helping clients navigate MEES requirements, we’re here to make the process as seamless and informed as possible.
Ready to elevate your next project with safety and sustainability in mind? Visit Octane Construction’s website for more information or contact us today to discuss your building needs. Together, we can build a safer, greener future!