With all the new requirements being enforced under the Building Safety Act 2022, a Building Safety Gap Analysis may well be something to consider. It can provide a prioritised road map to compliance, taking away the guesswork and worry that comes with changing legislation.
What Is a Gap Analysis?
A gap analysis is a methodical process used to identify the difference between the current state and the desired state of a system. In the context of residential block health and safety, it involves assessing current safety practices against the required standards and regulations.
As health and safety requirements have changed so much recently, an analysis may be the best way to identify any gaps in your approach that may risk non-compliance.
It will review your current practices through a strategic assessment; identifying where you are now and what needs to be done to get you to where you need to be.
Why is It Important?
The primary reason to carry out a gap analysis is to ensure your compliance with current regulations. Besides this, an analysis can improve the safety of your block. By identifying areas that may be technically compliant but that could still be improved, you’re given the chance to take additional steps to ensure the safety of your residents.
A gap analysis can also improve overall efficiency. It can identify opportunities for streamlining processes- saving time and resources. You’ll also be giving yourself the chance to address any issues in priority order as you follow the road-map laid out to reach compliance.
When Should a Gap Analysis be Carried Out?
If you’re already at the helm of a residential block, now is a great time to carry out a Building Safety Gap Analysis due to the recent changes in regulation. But a regular gap analysis ensures continuous improvement and compliance. It can change the mindset of your teams- encouraging them to continuously look for ways to improve safety protocols.
We’d highly recommend a gap analysis when you take over the management of a new building. It will give you a baseline understanding of historical practices and the building’s current state of health and safety compliance. It can give you a great starting point to ensure you’re focusing your attention in the right places from day one.
Whenever there is a legislative update, a new gap analysis should be conducted with the new regulations in mind. This simple step can help avoid any legal repercussions while ensuring resident safety.
Similarly, if any major works are carried out or if a significant incident occurs, the analysis should be repeated. In the case of an injury being sustained, a gap analysis is a vital part of the post-incident process to see what went wrong and how it can be avoided in the future.
How is It Conducted?
A competent professional should carry out the analysis for you. They should be highly trained experts in the health and safety field and be up to date with current legislation.
They will begin with a briefing or interview to determine your existing arrangements and the current state of the building. This will also include an appraisal of key documents and data.
They may interview specific staff members to understand the day-to-day management of the building in detail. Your current resources will be evaluated to consider your current capacity and levels of competency.
Once the analysis is complete, you should be provided with a key findings report that will highlight the actions required to ensure your compliance with current regulation. This should then be followed up with a meeting to discuss any questions or concerns, and to offer further guidance where needed.
How Can We Help?
Gap analysis is a crucial tool for maintaining high standards of health and safety in residential blocks. By regularly assessing and addressing the differences between current practices and required standards, property managers can ensure compliance, enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
Whether you’re on boarding a new property, reacting to legislative changes, reviewing after an incident, or simply conducting routine checks, gap analysis should be an integral part of your health and safety strategy.
Identifying potential weaknesses and areas for improvement is at the cornerstone of our safety compliance process. Our team will conduct a thorough examination of your building’s construction, engaging with stakeholders to uncover any gaps. We audit your safety management systems and perform an independent external review to ensure all aspects of the building meet the necessary safety standards.
Contact us today if you’d like to discuss a Building Safety Gap Analysis from our experts.
T: 01376 572 936
