The New Regulated Built Environment – Legislation in Construction and M&E

In this podcast episode titled "The New Regulated Built Environment – Legislation in Construction and M&E", I was joined by Joseph Lloyd, CEO of Paddeco, who provides a comprehensive discussion on the evolving construction landscape due to new regulations.

With a background in engineering and construction since the late seventies, Joe offers valuable insights into the industry's transformation.

The episode revolves around the significance of legislation. The Building Safety Act is highlighted as a key legislative piece that applies to the construction and engineering industry, because it’s not a recommendation but an active law, and compliance is necessary for all in the industry.

Joe goes on to discuss the implications of the BSA for Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) contractors, focusing on competence and compliance, with specific sections like Items 35, 33, and 148 outlining competence requirements.

He explained the difference between the terms "competence" and "compliance" using relatable examples such as driving a car confidently (competence) versus having a valid driver's license (compliance).

Competence is defined as the ability to perform a task, and compliance refers to adhering to laws and standards. While professionals might be skilled at their craft, they need to ensure compliance with evolving legal requirements.

Skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours, are what make up competence – this is outlined in the BSA and in industry-specific National Occupational Standards (NOS).

We discuss how these standards are critical for various occupations, both within and beyond construction, and ensure individuals possess the necessary expertise, yet are somehow often overlooked in comparison to British Standards.

While British Standards provide guidance on how things should be done, NOS define the skills and knowledge needed for various occupations within the industry and allow judgments to be made on a person's competence. Something to note is that, apart from these standards, compliance also encompasses Health & Safety regulations.

A key takeaway 🔑 from the conversation is the importance of keeping pace with evolving regulations. M&E Industry professionals need to maintain their skill sets and stay compliant with changing legal prerequisites.

However, as an industry, navigating complex legal documents and standards can be difficult, and this is an understandable hurdle. We should try to make Occupational Standards and Health & Safety protocols easier to understand for all to move towards competence and a safer built environment.

To add, we also touched on the importance of leadership, strong institutions, and shared knowledge in bringing about positive change in the industry. We need to bridge gaps between various organizations, and associations to achieve the necessary transformation. Collaboration, attitude shifts, and cultural changes are crucial factors in addressing these challenges.

In summary, though, the podcast provides an insightful exploration of industry standards, legislation, challenges that we face, and what we should be collectively doing to progress.

All in all, we urge you to stay informed and adapt to the dynamic regulatory environment. Such awareness will foster compliance, and safe practices, and enhance the overall construction industry – but it calls for collaborative efforts. We’re in this together! 💪