The BSR announces its independence from the HSE

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has officially become a standalone organisation, paving the way for the creation of a single regulator for the industry.

Previously running under the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the move to standalone status is accompanied by a significant ‘operational reset’ in BSR’s role as the building control authority for higher-risk buildings. 

Following the introduction of its Innovation Unit and new efficiency measures, the regulator’s operational delivery is fast improving. This progress demonstrates a commitment to combine regulatory experience with industry knowledge to target guidance and education where it is needed most.

Creating a single regulator for the building industry was a key recommendation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, and the independence of the BSR is a step towards that possibility.

Commenting on the move, Lord Roe the Chair of BSR, said, “Today is a decisive and important step in strengthening building safety and a milestone that marks our evolution into a standalone regulator. While the creation of BSR in 2021 was a watershed moment, today is about looking forward to a single construction regulator that brings coherence to a once-fragmented system.

“We will know we are successful when residents acknowledge we have made the built environment safer.

“Today is about continuing to support homes being built safely while fulfilling our primary mission: ensuring we are all building better and living safer, together.”

Samantha Dixon, Building Safety Minister also commented, “Everyone deserves to live in a safe home and we are determined to deliver lasting change to make this a reality.

“The Building Safety Regulator sits at the heart of this mission, and today launching a new body is an important step in realising sector wide reform.

“I look forward to working with the new leadership team on our journey towards the Single Construction Regulator.”