GoReport would like to draw attention to the recent announcement from the RICS of a training programme to increase the number of professional surveyors capable of completing future mandatory fire safety checks and to speed up the External Wall Fire review process (commonly known as EWS1).
In remembering the tragic circumstances of the Grenfell Tower tragedy in June 2007, where so many lost their lives, the EWS1 form represents part of the measures introduced to improve fire safety for high rise buildings over 18m in height. In clarifying the situation with regards to which properties requires an EWS1 form, the UK Government also recognised that there is a market shortage of competent fire engineers to conduct the EWS1 assessments that are required and are working with the RICS to address the gap.
In announcing the new training programme to launch in January 2021, RICS CEO Sean Tompkins commented “We recognise the acute market shortage of fire engineers to carry out EWS1 assessments and welcome the Government’s support to upskilling other regulated professions, such as Chartered Surveyors, to create additional capacity in the market.”
Many of GoReport’s clients specialise in delivering vital Fire Safety assessments through Fire Risk Assessments, Fire Defect and Fire Door Safety surveys. Through efficient, consistent and quality methods of data collection and speedy production and distribution of output data and reports they ensure that fire safety is increased through swift decision making and mitigation where appropriate by the relevant parties.
It is welcome news to hear that the RICS training programme will help address the recognised and acknowledged shortage of fire engineers and increase skills and competencies in this crucial area.
Further Information :
Government Press Release
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-steps-in-to-help-homeowners-caught-up-in-ews1-process
RICS Announcement