Level 4 and “time‑served” competence meets core expectations, but third‑party accreditation strengthens assurance, credibility, and defensibility. For HRBs and complex stock, Ark would generally recommend accreditation (BAFE/IFSM or EngTech/IFE) to support both client and regulator expectations.
Duty holders must evidence both individual and organisational competence. That means clearly defined accountable roles, a live Safety Case and golden thread, a competence management system for staff/contractors, and strong resident engagement and feedback loops.
A PCFRA must be done or overseen by someone competent in fire safety and resident vulnerability/safeguarding, not just building fabric. In‑house teams can do this where they are properly trained and supported; otherwise, a specialist or blended model is safer and more defensible.
PCFRA findings can change the understanding of building risk, particularly where resident vulnerabilities are significant. Where they do, the Safety Case should be reviewed and updated so it reflects risk and the additional controls introduced.
Martyn’s Law will require terrorism‑focused risk assessments and proportionate security controls in certain premises. Yes, Ark is helping clients by supporting in mapping in‑scope sites, integrating these threats into existing risk assessment frameworks and embedding resulting measures into policies, training, and emergency planning.