The Home Office has re-published the LGA guide on fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats as part of its overhaul of fire safety guidance.
Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats was originally published by the Local Government Association in 2011. The MJ reported in April this year, that the LGA had distanced itself from this guide.
The Home Office said they had taken the decision to host the guide: “Following the Local Government Association’s action to remove this from their website citing changes to government policy and regulation making this out of date.”
The 2011 guide was originally drafted by CS Todd & Associates Ltd after a wide ranging consultation. In September 2020, Colin Todd confirmed that his company had won the contract to revise it along with:
- A short guide to making your premises safe from fire
- Fire safety risk assessment checklist
- Fire Safety Order guidance note no.1
The Home Office said they expect to be able to publish the new version of the fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats guide later this year. It is linked to a separate consultation on Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) launched on 8 June.
Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats is a guide to ensuring adequate fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats, regardless of age. Practical advice is offered on how to assess the risk from fire and how to manage fire safety in such buildings.
The guide was in force at the time of the Grenfell Tower Fire.
Photo credit: LGA cover photo.