As many will know 2019 marked the 20th anniversary of the UK’s total ban on asbestos, and – perhaps – the first tentative signs that asbestos related deaths have peaked. Now, more than 20 years since asbestos was banned in the UK. Unfortunately, the presence of asbestos still remains widespread in our public and private buildings, with up to 6 million tonnes of asbestos thought to remain in UK buildings. The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 implemented the majority of the recommendations made by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry in its first phase report which required a change in the law. The new regulations came into force on 23 January 2023 following publication of guidance which was published on 6 December 2022.The regulations seek to improve the fire safety of blocks of flats in ways which are practical, cost effective and proportionate to the risk of fire. The Fire Safety Act (FSA) clarified the scope of the Fire Safety Order to make clear it applies to the structure, external walls (including cladding and balconies) and individual flat entrance doors between domestic premises and the common parts. The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, made under article 24 of the Fire Safety Order, impose new duties on responsible persons with regard to the areas brought within the Fire Safety Order by the Fire Safety Act, and commencement of section one of the Fire Safety Act was therefore a necessary precursor to the laying of these regulations. Many organisations have systems in place to try and manage compliance in their properties but given the age, location and general usage means that regular re-inspection and constant vigilance is required. Despite strict rules, lapses are regrettably still common, meaning occupiers, workers and members of the public are still exposed to the dangers these breaches leave.
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