Definitions Flashcards
Building Safety Act
The Building Safety Act is a UK law that aims to improve building safety and accountability, particularly for high-rise residential buildings, by establishing stricter regulations, oversight, and responsibilities for those involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings
BSA Wales
In Wales, the Building Safety Act 2022 has been adapted to establish a more comprehensive building safety regime than in England. The Welsh Government’s approach includes:
• Expanded Scope: All multi-occupied residential buildings with two or more units are subject to the new safety regime, regardless of height, extending beyond the 18-metre threshold used in England. • Remediation Commitment: A commitment to remediate all residential buildings 11 metres or taller, not limited to those with cladding issues. • New Regulatory Framework: Implementation of new regulations, such as the Building (Registered Building Control Approvers etc.) (Wales) Regulations 2024, which replace the previous system of approved inspectors with a registered building control approver model.
These measures are part of Wales’s broader efforts to enhance building safety and accountability across the country.
Net zero carbon
Net zero carbon means balancing the amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emitted into the atmosphere with an equivalent amount removed or offset, resulting in no net increase in carbon emissions.
In other words, an individual, company, building, or country achieves net zero carbon when:
• They reduce their emissions as much as possible through efficiency and clean energy, and
• Offset any remaining emissions (e.g. by planting trees or investing in carbon capture).
It’s a key goal in tackling climate change, with many governments (including the UK and Wales) aiming for net zero by 2050
SAB application
A SAB application refers to an application made to the Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) Approval Body in Wales.
Under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010, all new developments of more than one dwelling or over 100m² of construction area in Wales must include sustainable drainage systems and obtain approval from the SAB before construction begins.
In short:
A SAB application is a request for approval of drainage plans to ensure they manage surface water sustainably and comply with Welsh legislation.
Net zero carbon
Net zero carbon means balancing carbon emissions with removal or offsetting so that no net carbon is added to the atmosphere.
What’s the joint fire code?
The Joint Fire Code is a set of fire safety guidelines in the UK that apply during construction or renovation projects, aiming to prevent fires and reduce risks on building sites.
It’s often required by insurers and includes measures for fire prevention, detection, and emergency planning.
Cold bridging
Cold bridging (also called a thermal bridge) is when heat escapes through a part of a building that has less insulation—like metal or concrete—creating a “bridge” for heat to pass through.
It can lead to heat loss, condensation, and mould in buildings.
