In this episode, we talk to Sofie Hooper, Head of Policy at the Institute of Workplace & Facilities Management (IWFM) about the need for competence in the provision of fire safety. Sofie leads on the IWFM’s wider policy work and helps to raise the voice of the Institute, its members and the wider FM sector.

We talk to Sofie about the Building Safety Manager role and how facilities managers may adapt for the future to fulfil its requirements. We also cover why greater education, awareness and training is needed, what makes an individual “competent” and what steps those responsible for fire safety should be taking to minimise the risk for themselves, others and the business. This includes the role of fire risk assessments, the facility manager's role in acting on recommendations and the need for a clear and robust fire strategy.

The themes discussed are all centred around the FPA's Know Your Building campaign, which is seeking to support building managers and owners achieve stronger business resilience when it comes to the threat of fire. Find out more at www.thefpa.co.uk/know-your-building