This round table focuses on the critical importance of ensuring fire safety in social housing in line with Golden Thread principles. The Golden Thread concept, that emerged from the Hackitt Report in the wake of the Grenfell tragedy, means maintaining a record of clear, comprehensive digital information about a building’s design, construction, and materials, perceived as crucial for effective fire safety management.
Emphasis will be placed on practical solutions to the unique challenges around maintaining fire safety that social housing providers confront, from budgets to estate conditions. The discussion will explore strategies for improving fire safety in social housing, particularly the impact of the Building Safety Act, and the role of the Accountable Person in ensuring the safety of tenants in the buildings they manage. As well as fire prevention measures, inspection and enforcement regimes, and the requirements to manage the Golden Thread of information, delegates will share best practice and innovation on maintenance of fire safety, and retrofitting existing buildings.
Delegates will explore what the Golden Thread means for them, and the challenge of maintaining accurate and accessible records (e.g. on construction materials, fire safety systems, and modifications or renovations) throughout a building’s life cycle. This will include discussion of the appropriate technologies, data management systems, and levels of information needed to optimise safety.
The discussion will include recommendations from policymakers, housing providers, and other stakeholders to prioritise fire safety in social housing in line with the Building Safety Act.