Following the publication of proposed mandatory competence requirements, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has today launched a pilot test to assess understanding of Health and Life Safety.
As outlined within The Way Ahead, Health and Life Safety is the first area in which UK Chartered Members would be required to demonstrate their competence, from 2023. Followed by Climate Literacy and Ethical Practice.
Hosted online at RIBA Academy, the test asks a set of multiple-choice questions within seven areas of assessment, to correspond with the RIBA Health and Safety Guide:
- Preparing to visit site
- Undertaking site visits
- Site hazards
- Design risk management
- Statute, Guidance and Codes of Conduct
- CDM Regulations
- Principles of Fire Safety Design
The RIBA currently seeks feedback on these assessment areas alongside those for other proposed mandatory competences. RIBA Members are encouraged to complete this survey by 17 June 2021.
RIBA President, Alan Jones, said:
“We must ensure our members have the knowledge, skills and experience needed to tackle the UK’s evolving building safety crisis.
The tragedy at Grenfell Tower, subsequent Hackitt Review, and more recent fire safety catastrophes have not only highlighted the urgent need to reform regulations, but to raise standards of professional competence across the construction industry.
I urge members to take this pilot test and offer feedback on the proposed areas of assessment to ensure we create a robust system that works for our profession and the society we serve.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- In a recent RIBA survey, 85% acknowledged the importance of mandatory competence requirements as a way to improve professional standards.
- Press contact: Abigail.Chiswell-White@riba.org.
- The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow @RIBA on Twitter for regular updates.
