Mastering Workmanship and Building Standards in the Construction Industry

Episode 5 of M&E Drop-In features a detailed conversation with Paul McSoley, Chartered Engineer, Technical Compliance Director in construction. We delve into topics such as new regulations, construction products, workmanship, and particularly the nuances of fire safety in construction. With nearly three decades in the industry, McSoley shares his journey from an apprenticeship to various roles in significant building companies, emphasising the importance of understanding both the design and practical installation aspects of construction projects.

The conversation highlights the Building Safety Act's impact, driving home the point that regulations are not arbitrary but are responses to past failures and tragedies, aiming to reinforce existing standards and ensure buildings are safe for occupants and those affected by them. Paul discusses the nuanced interpretation of regulations, like Regulation 7 of the Building Regulations 2010, which mandates the use of adequate and proper materials in a workmanlike manner. This regulation, according to Paul, is pivotal in understanding what constitutes good workmanship and material selection, thereby ensuring that installations not only meet design specifications but are also fit for their intended purpose.

Moreover, Paul touches on the concept of "reinforcement" in the context of regulations, suggesting that the industry is moving towards a more rigorous standardization of product testing and installation practices. This includes a detailed examination of fire safety products, like fire dampers and smoke control systems, and the critical evaluation of their functionality within the construction ecosystem. He also underscores the importance of collaboration among various professionals in the construction process to achieve compliance and competence, distinguishing between the two as distinct but interconnected aspects of building safety.

The conversation further explores the concept of “safety-critical” elements in construction, a term that encompasses components essential for ensuring the safety of buildings but for which a comprehensive list or definition remains elusive. McSoley elaborates on the complexity of determining what constitutes a safety-critical element, highlighting the dynamic nature of such assessments based on the specific application and context of the construction elements.

Additionally, McSoley discusses the importance of adopting a system mindset over a commodity mindset in construction, emphasizing the need for collaboration among various experts to ensure compliance and competence. He draws attention to the challenges of navigating misleading claims and the critical role of evidence in substantiating the fire performance of products and systems. This leads to an exploration of the differences between fire-resistant and fire-rated products and the significance of accurate language and evidence in product claims to prevent misconceptions.

Paul's insights illuminate the challenges and opportunities within the construction industry, particularly in the realm of building safety and regulation compliance. His emphasis on experience, collaboration, and a deep understanding of regulations offers a comprehensive perspective on how to navigate the evolving landscape of construction with expertise and integrity.