The "Testing for a Safer Future" review

In the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, concerns over misleading marketing and inadequate product information in the construction industry have come to the forefront.

The "Testing for a Safer Future," review: which was commissioned by the government and conducted by Paul Morrell and Anneliese Day, highlights key areas that demand attention to ensure safer construction practices. "Still Another Mile to Go?", a blog series, explores two critical aspects of the industry marketing and product information and labeling and traceability.

Construction materials marketing and product information

Addressing the issue of misleading marketing information, the authors highlight the urgent need for the Construction Products Regulator to prioritise identifying deceptive practices and manage them effectively. The review points out that detecting and proving misleading information is less complicated than identifying product deficiencies.

Code for Construction Products Association

One vital constituent to address this issue is the Code for Construction Products Association. This platform is tasked with setting the standards for acceptable marketing practices in the industry. However, as the Code is currently voluntary and non-regulatory, its success relies on many factors, such as:

Buy-in by the sector: The industry must fully embrace and support the Code's principles and guidelines.

Effectiveness: The Code's ability to deter and remove false or misleading marketing information must be tested and proven effective.

Independent oversight: The oversight body governing the Code must operate independently and effectively.

Customer perception: Manufacturers adhering to the Code should be clearly distinguishable to the customers from those who do not.

Call for coordination between the Code for Construction Products Association and Third-Party Certification Schemes

The Review suggests coordination between the Code and Third-Party Certification Schemes to enhance protection further. This collaboration aims to avoid confusion and duplication of rules and simplify efforts towards a safer construction environment.

Labelling and Traceability

The Hackitt Review previously called for a consistent labelling and traceability system in the UK construction industry, leveraging digital technologies and learning from other sectors. Regrettably, the authors of the "Testing for a Safer Future" review discovered that meaningful progress towards this objective was lacking under the Building Safety Programme.

The Review highlights four essential steps that should be taken to improve labelling and traceability:

Embrace blockchain technology: Utilising sophisticated technologies like blockchain can provide a robust and secure ecology for labelling, ensuring data integrity and traceability.

Digital labels for unique identification: Implementing digital labels with unique identifiers will enable comprehensive product tracking throughout its lifecycle, enhancing transparency and accountability.

Universal terminology: Establishing consistent and universally understood terminology in labelling will minimise confusion and improve communication across the industry.

Nature of the product: Labelling should reflect the nature of the product, allowing end-users to make informed decisions about its use and safety.

To support these steps, the review recommends the development of a framework standard covering various aspects, such as:

• Providing a unique product identification reference ensures the information's traceability and longevity.
• Defining characteristics of a robust registration system for efficient product tracking.
• Establishing consistent terminology and protocols for data exchange.
• Specifying the information to be included in the product label or accessible through QR codes or links to external databases.
• Ensuring proper attachment of labels to accompany products so that critical information reaches end-users.

In conclusion: what should the Construction Products Regulator do to improve building safety?

The industry has a long way to go in ensuring the highest safety standards. To tackle the misleading marketing and product information issue, the Construction Products Regulator must prioritise identifying and eradicating deceptive practices, with support from the voluntary Code for Construction Products Association. Implementing a consistent labelling and traceability system, utilising digital technologies and standardised protocols, is crucial to establishing transparency and accountability in the industry. A smooth coordination between various stakeholders and the developing of a framework standard to guide the process is mandatory.

A Call for Action: Strengthening Accountability and Safety in Construction

In light of the findings from the "Testing for a Safer Future" review, it is imperative for the Construction Products Regulator to intensify efforts in addressing misleading marketing practices and enforce stringent labelling and traceability measures. With the integration of digital tools like blockchain and the development of standardized frameworks, the construction industry can pave the way for greater transparency, safety, and accountability. Effective coordination among industry bodies, regulators, and third-party certification schemes will be essential to ensuring a safer and more reliable future for the built environment.