Why Should Architects Participate in Consultation about Competence?
Understanding the importance of both dutyholder and organisational competence is crucial in architecture. With the new building safety regime in England, competence is central to regulatory frameworks, statutory duties, and updated professional codes of conduct.
Competence Requirements under the Building Safety Act
The Building Safety Act (BSA) makes it clear that an architect should only take on work when it falls within their area of competence. At the organisational level, practices must demonstrate the capability to perform work compliant with all relevant standards. This includes ensuring that individuals and supply chains involved are competent.
Industry Standards and Interim Solutions
Currently, no industry-wide consensus exists on the processes needed to manage organisational competence. However, a British Standard is expected to be developed within two years. To address the current gap, the Industry Task and Finish Group (ITFG) on Organisational Capability brought together professional bodies, including RIBA, and other stakeholders earlier this year.
Managing Competence in the Built Environment: A Guide
This collaboration resulted in the draft publication of Managing Competence in the Built Environment: A Guide. The ITFG is inviting feedback and recently launched a brief consultation on these guidelines.
An architect should only accept work when they know it is within the limits of their competence.
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The guide aims to establish clearer processes for both individuals and organisations to uphold competence in the construction sector, reinforcing safety and professionalism.
Summary: The evolving safety regulations in England emphasize that architects and organisations must rigorously manage competence, with new guidance and standards being developed to support this responsibility.