The Changing Face of Product Certification & Regulation

In February 2025, Building Insights LIVE hosted a round table at the Institute of Directors, sponsored by Siderise UK and Soprema, focusing on the Building Safety Act’s impact on product regulation and specification. Experts from across the industry discussed new competency requirements, procurement gateways, and proposed reforms to product testing under the Office for Product Safety and Standards.

While the Act aims to establish a more rigorous and accountable culture, the discussion revealed significant gaps in awareness and engagement. Concerns echoed findings from the Grenfell inquiry and Morrell/Day report, highlighting the urgent need for clearer guidance and industry-wide collaboration.

Attendees:

• Peter Caplehorn, Chief Executive, Construction Products Association/Construction Leadership Council
• Bryan Cowey, Specification Consultant/BIM Co-ordinator, SpecStudio
• Ross Newman, Technical Governance Manager & Regulatory Analyst, Warringtonfire
• Seán McAlister, Pencil & Brick
• Chris Gaze, Chris Gaze Associates
• Mark Taylor, Technical Director, Allies and Morrison
• Mark Wilkinson, Senior Technical Manager, Construction Products Association
• Neville Grunwald, Director of Facades and Roofs, Wates
• Amanda Long, CEO, CCPI Ltd
• Paul Morrell, Consultant & Former Government Chief Construction Adviser
• Gabriel Pierazzini, Head of Technical – Facades, Kier Group
• Mike Vaczi, Technical Director, Soprema
• Tony Ryan, Chief Technical Officer, Siderise UK

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