Behind the Regs

Behind The Regs with Darren Ettles

Summary In this episode of the Behind the Regs podcast, host Jack Calveley and co-host Nader engage with Darren Ettles, a seasoned professional in building control. They discuss Darren's extensive background, the role of the ABCA, the importance of a collective voice in the industry, and the impact of recent changes in building regulations, particularly the Building Safety Act. The conversation also touches on the sustainability of the private sector building control model, the effectiveness of competency assessments, and the need for collaboration across the sector. Darren emphasises the importance of communication and understanding within the industry to navigate future challenges effectively. Takeaways Darren Ettles has 35 years of experience in building control. ABCA represents private sector building control professionals. Building control requires a strong administrative foundation. The industry must adapt to changing regulations and standards. Competency assessments need to focus on practical understanding. Collaboration between local authorities and private sector is essential. The Building Safety Act has introduced significant changes. There is a need for a collective voice in the industry. Communication is key to resolving industry challenges. Future success depends on working together as a unified sector. Titles Navigating the Future of Building Control The Role of ABCA in Modern Building Regulations sound bites "Building control is 70% process." "The local authority has the teeth now." "We should all appreciate what we do." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Building Control and Darren's Background 07:29 Understanding ABCA and Its Role in the Industry 12:27 The Importance of a Collective Voice in Building Control 18:27 Challenges and Changes in Building Control Post-Building Safety Act 26:57 The Future of Private Sector Building Control 33:06 Sustainability of the Current Commercial Model 39:05 The Evolution of Building Control Approvals 40:31 Understanding Final Certificates and Competence Schemes 42:28 The Role of RBI in Building Regulations 45:39 The Need for Updated Guidance in Building Practices 50:45 Collaboration Across the Sector: A Path Forward 54:22 Bridging the Gap: The Role of ABCA 01:01:54 Navigating Future Challenges in Building Control

Behind The Regs with Stuart Hammond

Summary In this episode of Behind the Regs, Jack and Nader engage with Stuart Hammond to explore the multifaceted role of Registered Building Inspectors (RBIs) within the building control industry. The conversation delves into Stuart's background, the importance of career progression, the current state of competency and stabilisation in the industry, and the critical responsibilities of RBIs. They discuss the need for collaboration between local authorities and Registered Building Control Approvers (RBCAs), the challenges of maintaining competency, and the future of building control amidst regulatory changes. Stuart emphasises the importance of professional memberships and the need for a cultural shift in the industry to foster collaboration and support for RBIs. The episode concludes with valuable advice for RBIs navigating their careers in this evolving landscape. Takeaways Stuart Hammond shares his journey into building control. Career progression in building control is vital for the next generation. The industry is stabilising but still faces competency challenges. RBIs play a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance. Collaboration between local authorities and RBCAs is essential. Competency assessments are becoming the primary focus for RBIs. Professional memberships enhance career prospects and industry respect. The disconnect between local authorities and RBCAs needs to be addressed. Future success in building control requires more staff and collaboration. RBI's should prioritise their career goals and well-being. Titles Understanding the Role of RBIs in Building Control Navigating Career Progression in Building Control Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Building Control and RBI Perspectives 04:11 Stuart Hammond's Journey in Building Control 07:25 The Role of Management in Building Control 10:15 Stabilization and Competency in Building Control 13:06 Challenges in Class 3 Competency 16:22 The Importance of Collaboration in Building Control 19:14 Understanding the Role of an RBI 22:22 Accountability and Support for RBIs 25:10 Defining a Good RBI 29:14 Local Authorities vs RBCAs: Bridging the Gap 34:40 Generational Change in Building Control 36:02 Collaboration Between Authorities 39:11 Competence vs. Professional Memberships 44:38 Adapting to Regulatory Changes 52:29 Future of Building Control 54:51 Advice for Building Inspectors

Behind The Regs with Dr. Michael Kinsey

In this episode of Behind the Regs, hosts Nader and Jack engage with Dr. Michael Kinsey, a chartered fire engineer and researcher specialising in human behaviour during fire emergencies. Dr. Kinsey shares his journey from a background in computer science to his current focus on evacuation modelling and human behaviour in fire scenarios. He emphasises the gap between theoretical fire safety design and actual human behaviour, highlighting how assumptions made by designers often do not align with real-world reactions during emergencies. Through his research, he aims to bridge this gap by understanding decision-making processes and group dynamics in crisis situations. The conversation delves into the complexities of fire safety design, particularly the reliance on compliance with fire design guidance, which can lead to unsafe outcomes if practitioners do not critically assess human behaviour. Dr. Kinsey discusses the importance of evacuation modelling as a tool for stress-testing designs rather than a definitive answer to safety. He also addresses the challenges of using lifts for evacuation, the need for better education in fire engineering, and the importance of fostering curiosity and courage among engineers to question compliance and advocate for safer designs. This episode provides valuable insights into the intersection of engineering, human behavior, and fire safety.

Behind The Regs with Gary Cass

In this insightful interview, Gary Cass shares his extensive journey through the building control industry, highlighting leadership, industry collaboration, and future challenges. Discover how his diverse roles and experiences shape his vision for the sector's evolution. keywords building control, leadership, industry collaboration, regulation, career development, UK construction key topics Gary's career progression and leadership journey Industry collaboration between public and private sectors Challenges and future of building control resource management Titles From Trainee to CEO: Gary's Building Control Journey Leadership and Collaboration in Building Control with Gary Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Gary's Industry Background 03:32 Gary's Career Path and Key Milestones 05:28 Transition from Technical Roles to Leadership 08:24 Impact of Legislation and Industry Response 11:13 Building Control Sector Challenges and Opportunities 14:31 Balancing Public and Private Sector Building Control 18:25 Leadership Principles and Ethical Approach 21:18 Industry Collaboration and Organizational Structure 25:16 Working with Industry Organizations and Challenges 34:11 Current Industry Concerns: Resources and Fees 39:06 The Future of Building Control and Sector Evolution 52:05 Vision for Industry Improvement and Professional Growth 59:14 Gary's Role in CABE and Industry Contribution 01:03:59 no-copyright-music-394971.mp3 Resources Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) - https://www.cabe.org.uk/ Construction Industry Council (CIC) - https://cic.org.uk/ NHBC (National House Building Council) - https://www.nhbc.co.uk/ CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building) - https://www.ciob.org/ Building Control Alliance (BCA) - https://www.bca.org.uk/ Guest links https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-cass-08160188/

Behind the Regs with Jon Cumberlidge

In this episode of the Behind the Regs podcast, Jack and Nader engage with Jon Cumberlidge, a prominent figure in building control and competence discussions. The conversation explores Jon's extensive background in construction, the establishment and role of the Industry Competency Committee (ICC), and the evolving landscape of competence within the building control profession. Key themes include the importance of professional judgment, the impact of regulatory reforms, and the need for cultural change in the construction industry to rebuild trust and ensure public safety. John emphasizes the significance of collaboration among building inspectors and the necessity of maintaining high standards of competence as the industry navigates through significant changes. Takeaways Competence should be integrated into daily practices. Re-registration in 2028 is approaching quickly. Building inspectors must prepare for ongoing changes. Professional judgment is crucial in building control. The ICC aims to set competence standards for the industry. Collaboration among building inspectors is essential. Cultural change is needed to rebuild trust in construction. Regulatory reforms can lead to unintended consequences. Fire engineering is moving towards professionalization. Public safety is a primary concern in building control. Titles Navigating the Future of Building Control The Importance of Competence in Construction Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Building Control and Competence 04:13 The Role of the Industry Competency Committee (ICC) 07:32 Competence in Practice for Registered Building Inspectors (RBIs) 10:51 Understanding Good Competence in Building Inspection 13:37 Building Control Working Group and Its Focus 16:21 Challenges in Construction Regulation and Responsibilities 19:32 Pressure and Professional Judgment in Building Inspection 23:10 Protecting Professional Judgment Amidst Oversight 27:35 Government Proposals and the Single Construction Regulator 32:06 Building Control and Regulatory Changes 39:10 The Future of Fire Engineering 46:38 Cultural Change in Construction 54:34 The Path Forward for Building Control Professionals