Is Your Façade Still Compliant with Today’s Regulations?

In the realm of façade maintenance, compliance is not just a best practice—it's a legal obligation. Building owners and facilities managers must ensure that their structures meet current safety standards to protect both workers and the public.

But with regulations evolving, it's crucial to ask: Is your façade still compliant with today's standards?

Understanding UK Façade Access and Safety Requirements

In the UK, building owners are responsible for providing safe access for maintenance, cleaning, or inspection work at height. This includes ensuring that any façade access systems, such as abseil points, building maintenance units (BMUs), and anchorage devices, meet current health and safety standards.

Key legislation includes:

• The Work at Height Regulations 2005: These regulations require that work at height is properly planned, supervised, and carried out by competent individuals. Employers must assess risks and ensure the use of appropriate equipment. heightsafesystems.com

• The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER): PUWER mandates that equipment provided for use at work is suitable, maintained, and inspected to ensure safety.

• BS 8610:2017: This British Standard specifies requirements for anchor systems used in personal fall protection, ensuring they are designed and tested for safety.

• BS 8681:2024: Introduced to provide guidance on the design, installation, and maintenance of façade access systems, enhancing safety and compliance.

• The Building Safety Act 2022: This act introduces a new regulatory framework for building safety, including the establishment of the Building Safety Regulator and requirements for higher-risk buildings. legislation.gov.uk

Are You Keeping Up?

Many buildings still rely on access systems installed years ago, which may no longer meet current standards. If your last inspection was over 12 months ago, or if you lack up-to-date certification, it's time to reassess.

Non-compliance can lead to severe consequences:

• Legal Liability: Failure to comply with safety regulations can result in legal action, fines, or imprisonment.

• Increased Risk: Outdated or poorly maintained access systems heighten the risk of accidents, endangering workers and the public.

• Insurance Issues: Non-compliance may invalidate insurance policies, leaving you financially vulnerable in the event of an incident.

How Glass Aftercare Can Help

At Glass Aftercare, we proactively address façade compliance by offering:

• Comprehensive Access Compliance Surveys: Assessing your current systems against the latest regulations.

• Testing and Certification: Ensuring anchor points and abseil systems meet safety standards.

• Upgrade Guidance: Advising on necessary improvements to achieve compliance.

• Long-Term Management Plans: Developing strategies to maintain ongoing compliance and safety.hse.gov.uk+1hsmsearch.com+1

Stay Compliant. Stay Protected.

Façade safety is not a one-time task but an ongoing responsibility. Let us help you navigate the complexities of compliance, ensuring the safety of all who interact with your building.

Note: This blog post is based on information available as of 6th June 2025. For the most current regulations and guidance, please consult official resources or contact Glass Aftercare directly.