Building Safety Act 2022: A Complete Guide for Architects
A comprehensive guide to the Building Safety Act 2022 covering the new regulatory framework, principal designer duties, the golden thread of information, and the three-gateway regime.
The Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA) represents the most significant overhaul of building safety regulation in the UK since the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
Scope: Higher-Risk Buildings
HRBs are buildings that are at least 18 metres high OR have at least 7 storeys, AND contain at least 2 residential units.
The Three-Gateway Regime
Gateway 1 — Planning Stage
The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) is a statutory consultee on planning applications for HRBs. Applications must demonstrate fire safety considerations.
Gateway 2 — Pre-Construction
Full design documentation must be submitted to and approved by the BSR before works commence. The Principal Designer coordinates the submission.
Gateway 3 — Completion
Before occupation, the Principal Contractor must submit a completion certificate to the BSR.
The Golden Thread of Information
Accurate, up-to-date building information must be created, maintained, and handed over throughout the building's life, including as-built drawings, fire safety specifications, and the Building Safety Case Register.
Principal Designer Duties
The BSA Principal Designer must plan, manage, monitor, and coordinate design work to ensure compliance; prepare Gateway 2 documentation; and notify the BSR of design changes.
Accountable Person and Building Safety Manager
In occupation, HRBs must have an Accountable Person with legal safety obligations, and a Building Safety Manager managing day-to-day safety.