Scotland probes high-rise flat fire safety

Image: Grenfell Tower (Dreamstime)

The Scottish government has announced a new public consultation calling for views on how to simplify guidance on fire safety in high-rise flats.

The move comes as part of the Scottish Government’s response to the Grenfell Tower fire in London in 2017 and will seek views on proposals for a public information campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of leaving rubbish or unwanted items in common areas within high-rises.

Minister for community safety Ash Denham said: “The tragic events at Grenfell Tower emphasised how important building and fire safety is. In Scotland we have stringent regulations but are committed to further improving the safety of those living in high-rise flats.

“We want everyone who is responsible for fire safety in high rise domestic buildings to have easy access to guidance that is relevant, informative and will work in practice.

“The public’s views, particularly people and families living in high-rise flats, are vital in this process and I would encourage everyone with an interest to respond to our consultation and ensure their voice is heard.”

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service assistant chief officer Ross Haggart said: “We are fully supportive of this consultation and any efforts to enhance the safety of residents within high rise premises.

“We will meanwhile continue to carry out operational assurance visits at high-rise premises for the purposes of checking facilities and arrangements for firefighting and firefighter safety.”