Glossary

Glossary of Industry Terms:
Simplifying Building Compliance and Safety

The construction and building safety sectors are full of technical jargon and acronyms that can be overwhelming. To help you navigate these terms with confidence, we’ve compiled a comprehensive glossary of the most commonly used words, phrases, and abbreviations in the industry.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, our glossary is here to ensure you’re always in the know.

How to use this glossary

Quick Reference:
Find clear definitions of terms you encounter in your projects.
Learn the Basics:
Gain a deeper understanding of industry-specific language.
Stay Compliant:
Use the glossary as a tool to better navigate building regulations and safety requirements.

Key Terms and Definitions

Approved Document:

Guidance documents published by the UK Government to support compliance with the Building Regulations.

 

Building Control Approver (BCA):

An organisation or individual authorised by the Building Safety Regulator to assess and certify compliance with Building Regulations.

Building Regulations:

Legal requirements governing the design and construction of buildings to ensure safety, health, and accessibility in and around buildings.

Competent Person Scheme (CPS)::

A certification scheme allowing certain installers to self-clarify that their work complies with Building Regulations.

Completion Certificate:

A formal document issued by a building control body

confirming the building works are completed and as far as reasonably practical to ascertain the works are satisfactory under the Building Regulations.

Dutyholder:

Individuals or organisations with specific responsibilities under the Building Safety Act, including designers, contractors, and building owners.

Evacuation Alert System:

A fire safety system installed in high-rise residential buildings to aid the fire service during emergencies.

Fire Strategy:

A detailed analysis and assessment of how the building design and occupation meets the required level of fire safety.

Fire Risk Assessment (FRA):

A legal requirement for common areas of flats and all non-domestic buildings to have a fire risk assessment carried out by a competent person to ensure that the way the building is being used and maintained is satisfactory.

Gateway Process:

Key approval stages introduced under the Building Safety Act for high-risk building projects also see the Building (Higher-Risk Building Procedures) (England) Regulations 2023.

Higher-Risk Building (HRB):

Buildings over 18m tall with 7 or more storeys which contain hospitals, care homes or at least 2 dwellings, subject to enhanced safety regulations under the Building Safety Act.

Inspection Plan:

A schedule outlining critical stages in a construction project that require inspections by your Registered Building Inspector.

Registered Building Control Approver (RBCA):

A certified organisation authorised to perform building control functions under the Building Safety Regulator’s framework.

Regulatory Liaison:

Collaboration with regulatory bodies to ensure a project meets compliance requirements.

Sprinkler System:

An active fire protection measure designed to control or extinguish fires automatically.

Sustainability:

Practices in construction that minimise environmental impact and promote energy efficiency.

Can’t Find a Term?

If you’re looking for a definition that’s not included here, let us know.
Our team can provide clarity and add it to the glossary for future reference. Contact Us

Related Pages

• Regulatory Updates: Stay informed about the latest industry changes.
• Support and FAQs: Find answers to common questions and troubleshooting tips.