Survey reveals uncertainty over Building Safety Act responsibilities

Nearly half of specifiers are still unsure about their responsibilities under the Building Safety Act (BSA) 2022, according to a new survey by NBS. Findings from the Building Safety Survey, carried out by the specification platform, show that 50% of respondents are not clear, or had no idea, of dutyholder responsibilities for higher-risk buildings under […]

Nearly half of specifiers are still unsure about their responsibilities under the Building Safety Act (BSA) 2022, according to a new survey by NBS.

Findings from the Building Safety Survey, carried out by the specification platform, show that 50% of respondents are not clear, or had no idea, of dutyholder responsibilities for higher-risk buildings under the act. Just 12% felt ‘very clear’ about their responsibilities, pointing to a number of ‘knowledge gaps’ that persist within the industry, demonstrating that more training is needed, the NBS said.

In addition, nearly half (44%) of respondents were unsure or have no idea what steps to take within the new building safety regime. Only around half (45%) were clear as to how they would manage building information to realise the golden thread, and just one in 10 had a solid plan in place.

Russell Haworth, chief executive officer UK of NBS’s parent company, Byggfakta Group, said the research shows many specifiers are ‘struggling to get to grips with the requirements of the new building safety regime’.

‘This needs to be resolved. All designers must have the correct approach to specifications if the industry is to raise the bar on building safety. This includes getting to grips with the “nitty-gritty” of the BSA if they want to operate in the new regulatory landscape.’