FIS has expanded its industry-leading Competency Framework programme with the publication of four new frameworks covering Suspended Ceiling Installation, Complex Ceilings, Service Moveable Walls and Modular Partitions.

The latest additions build on the growing suite of FIS Competency Frameworks, providing clear, practical guidance to support competence, compliance and best practice across the finishes and interiors sector.

Developed in collaboration with FIS members, employers, manufacturers, training providers, CITB and wider industry stakeholders, the frameworks reflect real working practice and define the skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours required for individuals working in specialist finishes and interiors occupations. 

The expansion marks another significant milestone in supporting the industry’s response to the Building Safety Act, helping organisations demonstrate that individuals have the competence required for the work they undertake. 

The following Competency Frameworks are now available on the FIS website at https://www.thefis.org/membership-hub/publications/competency-frameworks/

• Suspended Ceilings (NEW)
• Complex Ceilings (NEW)
• Service Moveable Walls (NEW)
• Modular Partitions (NEW)
• Ceilings
• Drylining
• Fibrous Plastering
• Solid Plastering
• Raised Access Flooring
• SFS (Steel Framed Systems)

 Each Competency Framework provides a consistent, structured approach to competence and includes:

• Routes to competence – recognised qualification and training pathways for the occupation.
• SKEB statements (Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Behaviour) – detailing the competencies required for installers, including mandatory training and ongoing revalidation where appropriate.
• Implementation plans – outlining how the frameworks will be adopted across the sector, supported by assessment and training.

Together, these frameworks provide employers, individuals, clients and principal contractors with greater confidence that work is being carried out safely, competently and in accordance with both legal requirements and industry best practice.

The introduction of dedicated frameworks for Suspended Ceilings, Complex Ceilings, Moveable Walls and Modular Partitions reflects the increasing demand for greater role clarity within specialist interior fit-out disciplines. They establish consistent benchmarks for competence while supporting businesses in meeting client expectations, improving workforce capability and strengthening quality across the sector.

Commenting on the launch, Beena Nana, Head of Skills and Training at FIS said:

“These new frameworks give employers and installers a clear understanding of the skills needed for their roles. They will help improve standards across the sector and support businesses in meeting the requirements of the Building Safety Act.”

To underpin the Competence Frameworks, CITB, in partnership with Build UK and fire industry experts, have developed a free Fire Safety in Buildings e-learning course to improve an individual’s knowledge of fire safety measures in buildings. The course is suitable for anyone working in the design, construction, or maintenance of buildings, with a specific focus on installers and can be accessed here https://www.thefis.org/skills-hub/training-offers-for-members/fis-training-modules/fire-safety-in-buildings/

The full suite of Competency Frameworks is available at https://www.thefis.org/membership-hub/publications/competency-frameworks/

The CPA’s forecast for construction output has been downgraded further in its Summer forecast, due to the lagged impacts of the Middle East conflict that are starting to pass through to both the demand and cost sides of the UK economy. Construction output year-to-date so far in 2026 has already fallen by 1.6%, according to the Office for National Statistics, even before the impacts of the conflict and it is now expected to fall by 3.3% overall in 2026. This fall is due to activity weakening considerably in the key sectors of private housing new build and private housing repair, maintenance and improvement during the second half of the year. Output is still expected to rise by 1.2% in 2027 but the risks remain heavily on the downside.

Private housing is the largest construction sector and house builders have begun to report that homebuyer demand has weakened sharply in recent months in line with the increase in mortgage interest rates since the Middle East conflict. This will exacerbate the issue of affordability, which was already a problem before the conflict, especially for buyers in areas of the country with higher house prices. In lower-priced parts of the country, house builders will have to deal with sharp cost increases when site viability is already an issue. A spike in construction product prices in the second half of this year will come on top of a list of additional regulatory costs imposed over the last few years, with the Building Safety Levy coming into force in October 2026 and the Future Homes and Buildings Standard, which will be implemented in March 2027. Overall, private housing output is forecast to fall by 10.0% in 2026, a downward revision from -7.0% in the Spring forecast and output is forecast to remain flat in 2027, the same forecast as in Spring, but now from a lower level.

Private housing repair, maintenance, and improvement (rm&i) is the second-largest construction sector. Basic repairs and maintenance activities have largely continued as usual, but there has been limited activity in home improvement projects, typically the key driver of growth. Even though many homeowners had the finances for projects over the last two years, they have increasingly focused on saving rather than spending, especially on discretionary, non-essential items such as home improvement projects, and this is likely to be the case as the cost of living rises in the next 12 months. In the long term, government-funded schemes for energy efficiency in the private housing stock may drive further growth in solar photovoltaic and heat pumps, although skills shortages may hinder this. Overall, private housing rm&i output is forecast to fall by 8.0% in 2026 and remain flat in 2027.

There is still expected to be significant growth in infrastructure, the third-largest construction sector, given longer-term existing contracts, pipelines of activity and funding in place for future projects. Energy generation and National Grid distribution work are expected to continue growing strongly, as is water investment. There is greater uncertainty in rail, with the HS2 cost-saving ‘reset’ now expected to be published only in Spring 2027, and in roads, following the just-departed Prime Minister’s announcement that further defence spending would be partly funded by cuts to new roads projects. Overall, infrastructure output is forecast to rise by 3.2% in 2026, unchanged from Spring, and by 3.2% in 2027, a marginal revision down from 3.4% in Spring.

Commenting on the Spring Forecasts, CPA Head of Construction Research, Rebecca Larkin, said:

“Construction activity so far this year is already lower than a year earlier and there is still considerable concern that we are yet to see the key impacts of cost inflation on projects down on the ground or the extent to which it affects appetite for signing up to or starting new projects. The biggest questions are how rises in construction costs, financing costs and the cost of living will affect the privately-financed sectors of private housing, private housing rm&i and commercial. Consequently, these sectors are forecast to experience the largest falls in output over the next 12-18 months.

 

Even in areas where we forecast growth, there is an increased risk that rising cost inflation eats into the volume of construction work, even if the values of work are maintained. In addition, this rise in construction costs runs alongside the government’s imposition of 50% import tariffs for imported steel since 1 July 2026 and the prospect of even higher financing costs if the Bank of England raises interest rates, which make worsening viability a key barrier for new projects to progress.

 

The arrival of the new Prime Minister emphasises that the new government will have to focus on enabling house building and construction demand, as well as focus on reducing cost burdens on the whole construction supply chain if it is serious about pledges for more new homes, more and better quality infrastructure and the Net Zero transition. This is a pressing issue as essential capacity and skills have been lost in the last two years and this will only get worse as activity falls over the next 12-18 months.”

FIS is preparing a response to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) Call for Evidence on the future Strategy for the Built Environment Professions, Trades and Occupations. The consultation will help shape government policy on competence, accountability, behaviours and collaboration across the entire building lifecycle, with a new strategy expected in 2027.

Our draft response argues that while competence is often discussed in terms of skills, qualifications and regulation, the ability of competent people and businesses to deliver safe, high-quality and compliant work is fundamentally shaped by the conditions created through procurement and design processes. We contend that many project failures attributed to workmanship, quality, cost or programme pressures can be traced back to earlier decisions on procurement routes, risk allocation, appointment timing, design responsibility and project governance.

The draft focuses on four interconnected areas of risk:

• Procurement risk arising from late specialist engagement, unclear responsibilities and inappropriate transfer of risk.
• Design risk where specialist knowledge is introduced too late and unresolved assumptions are passed through the project lifecycle.
• Time risk created by programme pressures, poor transition from design to construction and inadequate site readiness.
• Cost and cash risk resulting from payment practices and commercial pressures that undermine investment in competence, training and quality.

A central recommendation is that procurement should be recognised as a primary control point for competence and accountability. The draft also proposes stronger use of Design Responsibility Matrices, greater recognition of specialist expertise during design development, clearer treatment of design-significant changes such as substitutions and value engineering, and the inclusion of key procurement and responsibility records within the Golden Thread.

This consultation provides an important opportunity to ensure that the practical experience of specialist contractors and the finishes and interiors sector is reflected in future government policy. To strengthen our response, we are seeking member input on whether the themes identified reflect current industry experience and to gather evidence, examples and case studies that demonstrate how procurement practices, design responsibility, programme pressures, site readiness and payment practices impact project outcomes.

We encourage all members to read the draft response and provide comments and suggested amendments to iainmcilwee@thefis.org by 10 August.

In particular, we welcome examples that illustrate the challenges and opportunities identified in the paper, as well as views on the key messages that FIS should prioritise in its final submission. Feedback will help ensure that our response accurately reflects the realities facing businesses across the finishes and interiors sector and maximises our influence on the future development of the built environment professions strategy.

Please send comments and evidence to FIS by 10 August 2026 to help shape the final submission

FIS is inviting members to take part in the Construction Showcase at this year’s SkillBuild National Final, taking place at the Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes, on 18–19 November 2026.

The Construction Showcase is an interactive experience hub featuring hands-on activities and live demonstrations designed to inspire young people to explore careers in construction. As part of the showcase, FIS will be highlighting the breadth of opportunities and skills within the finishes and interiors sector and we are looking for members to help bring the stand to life.

Whether through interactive activities, practical demonstrations or engaging displays, this is an excellent opportunity to promote your specialist skills, engage with future talent and help inspire the next generation to consider a career in the sector.

Construction Showcase opening times:

• Wednesday 18 November: 09:00–16:00
• Thursday 19 November: 09:00–15:00

If you’re able to support the FIS stand, please contact Beena Nana at beenanana@thefis.org by Friday 11 September.

The Construction Showcase forms part of the SkillBuild National Final, the UK’s largest multi-trade skills competition. Visitors will have the chance to watch the country’s top scoring apprentices and trainees compete across a range of trades including Drylining, Bricklaying, Carpentry, Plastering, Painting and Decorating, Wall and Floor Tiling, and Joinery, with projects transforming from blank canvases into impressive displays of craftsmanship, skill and precision.

Recruiting and retaining skilled people remains one of the biggest challenges facing our sector. The Government’s Youth Guarantee aims to help employers access new talent while giving young people aged 16–24 the skills, experience and opportunities they need to succeed.

For FIS members, the initiative offers practical support to strengthen your workforce and reduce recruitment costs through funded training, apprenticeships and employer incentives.

What support is available?

Eligible employers may be able to benefit from:

• Funded apprenticeship training and new apprenticeship incentives.
• The £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant for recruiting eligible young people claiming Universal Credit.
• Access to Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) to help recruit job-ready candidates with training tailored to your business.
• Support to provide work experience placements and connect with young people through local Jobcentres and Youth Hubs.
• Free recruitment support from Jobcentre Plus, including advertising vacancies, candidate matching and advice from dedicated Recruitment Consultants.

Whether you’re looking to recruit apprentices, site operatives, estimators, project managers or office based staff, these schemes can help you develop the skilled workforce your business needs while supporting the next generation of construction professionals.

Find out more

Get in touch with beenanana@thefis.org or marieflinter@thefis.org

Visit the Government’s Build Your Future Workforce campaign to explore the support available for employers and register your interest:

Build Your Future Workforce

You can also find guidance on apprenticeships, grants and recruitment support through GOV.UK employer guidance.

The Government has confirmed right to work checks will be extended from 1 October 2026 to include casual or temporary workers, subcontractors and agency workers supplied through contractual chains. Employers have the following options for ensuring an individual has the right to work in the UK:

• Use a certified digital identity service provider to conduct digital checks on any individual who has either a valid British or Irish Passport (or Irish Passport Card). The employer must still confirm that the individual presenting for work is the same as whose identity has been verified, which can be done via video call.
• Conduct an online check via the Home Office online service where an individual has been provided with an eVisa or is providing certain other documentation. An employer can also use the Employer Checking Service in specific circumstances, for example where an individual has an outstanding application or appeal with the Home Office.

Conduct in‐person manual document‐based checks, where the employer has to physically obtain, check and copy ‘acceptable documents’ from the prospective employee. It should be noted that a driving licence is not an acceptable document.

The Government has confirmed that it will issue further guidance in due course, and Build UK members are advised to identify who among their staff will fall within the extended right to work scope and start reviewing contracts and processes. Employers conducting right to work checks in accordance with the Home Office guidance will be provided with a ‘statutory excuse’, which protects them from liability if they are later found to be employing someone illegally. Without a statutory excuse, employers face significant penalties, which could be up to a maximum of £60,000 per worker.

The first three months of 2026 were a challenging opening to the year data from the CPA Construction Trade Survey has revealed.

Previous surveys had already shown a slowdown in demand over recent quarters and with persistent rain in January and February and the start of the Middle Eastern conflict pushing oil prices above $100 per barrel in March, there was a broad weakness evident in the construction supply chain.

Sales fell for product manufacturers and workloads were lower for both chartered surveyors and civil engineering contractors. Moreover, it was the first quarter that both heavy side and light side product manufacturers had reported a decrease in sales volumes since 2023 Q4, it was also the lowest balance for chartered surveyors and civil engineering contractors since the pandemic-hit quarters in 2020. This widespread decline points to a more broad-based fall in construction activity, with even infrastructure, which has been an area of growth in past surveys, unable to retain momentum against the Q1 headwinds.

A recent joint webinar between FIS and Recolight looked at the drive to reduce carbon emissions in the built environment is rapidly shifting beyond operational energy performance and towards the carbon embodied within the products and materials used to create buildings.

EPDs: The foundation of carbon measurement

Historically, the construction industry has focused on operational carbon, emissions from heating, cooling, lighting and powering buildings. However, as buildings become more efficient and the UK’s electricity grid continues to decarbonise, embodied carbon is becoming an increasingly significant part of a building’s total impact.

Flavie Lowres who has a dual role of Sustainability Champion for FIS and Recolight explained:

“As buildings become more energy efficient, the grid decarbonises, and buildings become less dependent on gas, the proportion of operational and embodied carbon will change. Therefore, it is important that we start to look at embodied carbon emissions as well.”

Embodied carbon covers emissions generated throughout a product’s lifecycle, from raw material extraction and manufacturing through transport, installation, maintenance and end-of-life disposal.

Central to this transition is the Environmental Product Declaration (EPD).  Flavie described an EPD as:

“An independently verified and registered document, based on a Life Cycle Assessment that provides transparent and comparable information on the environmental impact across a product lifecycle assessment.”

While creating an EPD requires investment, manufacturers do not necessarily need an EPD for every individual product.

As Flavie noted:

“You don’t have to worry about doing one EPD for every single permutation of your products.”   Using product families and scaling methodologies can often provide a practical route to delivering meaningful environmental data without excessive cost.

Carbon budgets are becoming standard practice

One of the most striking messages from the webinar was how quickly embodied carbon is becoming embedded in mainstream design processes.

Rachel Hoolahan, from architectural practice Orms, explained that carbon budgets are now increasingly being set at the earliest design stages and used throughout project development.

“When we start with carbon, we’re thinking about it from the very start of any project.”  She described how carbon is now treated much like project finances:

“We have a base budget set and then a developing budget, where we’re looking to reduce carbon in key areas.”

Later in the discussion, she confirmed how widespread the practice has become within her practice:

“All of our projects, no matter how big or small, have a carbon budget at this point.”

From sustainability claims to evidence

For contractors, the demand for reliable environmental data is growing rapidly.

James Upstill-Goddard  from Willmott Dixon explaines that the sector is moving beyond sustainability marketing claims. “There’s been a shift from claims to evidence.”

He highlighted how EPDs help provide confidence in the environmental performance being reported to clients:

“It enables us to move more from making generic assumptions about how a product or building will perform to using product-specific data.”

The value of EPDs, he explained, extends beyond measurement:

“EPDs help us move from just reporting carbon to carbon reduction – actually being able to do something with it.”

Frameworks are driving market demand

James also highlighted the growing influence of public sector procurement frameworks in accelerating embodied carbon measurement.  He noted that the Department for Education’s latest framework represents a significant step change.

“The DfE expect that 85% by mass of all materials and products in that school will have an EPD available.”

He described this as:

“A huge undertaking … but that’s clearly where the industry is going.”

As more frameworks and clients adopt similar requirements, manufacturers able to provide verified environmental data will be better positioned to compete.

What does this mean for FIS members?

The Q&A helped underpin why this is important for FIS members, particularly those supplying fit-out and interiors products, the importance of embodied carbon is only increasing.

Ian McIlwee highlighted how fit-out’s relatively short replacement cycles make the issue particularly relevant:

“We fit out such a fast cycle. Every five, every seven years, we’re stripping stuff out. We’ve got to be thinking longer term about the decisions that we’re making.”

At the same time, speakers stressed that EPDs should not become a barrier to innovation.

Rachel cautioned against excluding products solely because they lack an EPD:

“The EPD is not the be all and end all.”   Whilst it provides the best framework, she added:

“I certainly don’t want to stifle innovation.” 

James reminded agreed, whilst recognising the benefit of consistency, he reflected, the goal is to understand real impacts and support better decisions in the most consistent way possible.

Looking beyond carbon

The discussion also touched on the next stage of environmental assessment.

Rachel suggested that future attention will increasingly focus on wider ecological impacts beyond carbon alone:

“We’ve been in a carbon-blinkered world for the past couple of years.”

She highlighted growing interest in embodied ecological impact, including factors such as water consumption, pollution and biodiversity.

Circularity was another recurring theme. Encouraging manufacturers to think beyond product sales, Rachel urged businesses to consider reuse and refurbishment models:

“Circularity is a huge growing piece.”

The direction of travel is clear

The overall message from the webinar was that embodied carbon is rapidly becoming a key metric alongside cost, programme and quality.  Public sector frameworks, client requirements and emerging standards are all pushing the industry towards greater transparency.

For manufacturers and suppliers, environmental data is increasingly becoming part of market access. For designers and contractors, it is becoming essential for informed decision-making.

As James concluded:

“The real value in EPDs is when the important decisions are made.”

For FIS members, now is the time to engage with embodied carbon, understand the role of EPDs and prepare for a market where verified environmental performance is no longer optional, but expected.

If you want to view the webinar click here

If you want to find out more about EPDs, you can visit the FIS Sustainability Hub here.

CT 2016: Withdrawal and Transitionary Period Explained…

The JCT 2016 Edition of contracts has been withdrawn but JCT 2016 contracts are still available to buy under a ‘transitionary period’ until the end of 2026.

What does this mean?

As of 31 March 2026, the JCT 2016 Edition was officially withdrawn, superseded by the current JCT 2024 Edition. This means that the JCT 2016 Edition is now out of date.

For new projects, or schemes yet to go out for tender, JCT recommends using contracts from the JCT 2024 Edition at the earliest possible opportunity to ensure that your contract is up to date with current legislation, compliance, and best practice.

What about the transitionary period?

JCT recognises that, whilst the 2016 Edition was withdrawn on 31 March, projects will have just started, or be in progress, on 2016 contracts. As well as the choice of main contract at Tier-1, it has a knock-on effect throughout the supply chain at Tier-2 and 3, where if a JCT 2016 main contract is used, the corresponding JCT 2016 sub-contracts will also need to be adopted.

Therefore, the transitionary period – set until 31 December 2026 – is designed to assist the industry to complete projects that have already started, or have been tendered on, JCT 2016 contracts.

What are your options?

JCT 2016 contracts will continue to be made available in hardcopy only whilst stocks last, and then digitally only thereafter – via JCT On Demand or JCT Construct – until the end of the transitionary period.

JCT recommends that:

If your choice of procurement route/main contract has yet to be decided, you use contracts from the 2024 Edition.

If you do require 2016 Edition contracts (main contracts or sub-contracts) for your project, you purchase them and any ancillary documents as soon as possible, to make sure you have the required documents before the end of the transitionary period.

Once the transitionary period is over, JCT 2016 contracts will no longer be available to buy in any format. Subscribers to the JCT Construct service will be able to replicate and reuse contracts based on their existing 2016 boilerplates to start new projects but will not be able to start any new projects based on blank 2016 templates.

Source: JCT

New guidance provides a clear roadmap for industry stakeholders to maximise the reuse of construction products and accelerate the transition to a circular economy.

Project Reuse has launched three practical flowcharts designed to help the finishes and interiors sector unlock greater opportunities for reusing products. The new resources provide a clear, step-by-step framework for stakeholders involved in deconstruction, refurbishment and new-build projects, supporting more consistent decision-making and increasing confidence in product reuse.

Developed throughout the project, the flowcharts capture the processes identified by the Project Reuse team as current best practice. While they reflect today’s operating environment, they have been designed as living guidance that will continue to evolve as reuse becomes more established across the commercial construction sector.

The flowcharts will form part of Project Reuse’s final guidance documentation, offering practical support to clients, designers, manufacturers, contractors, consultants and deconstruction specialists seeking to maximise the value of existing building products.

Three flowcharts have been published:

Ceiling Tile Reuse
The Ceiling Tile Reuse flowchart records the steps for stakeholders to take to enable reuse onsite (by the client) or offsite (in alternative commercial projects) for metal suspended ceiling tiles. It starts with the identification of products in a Pre-Deconstruction Audit and maps the process through to demount, palletisation and transportation. This captures actions for multiple stakeholders from client to consultant, manufacturer, contractor and deconstruction contractor.

Luminaire Reuse
The Luminaire Reuse flowchart records the steps for stakeholders to take to enable reuse onsite (by the client) or offsite (in alternative commercial projects) for luminaires.   It starts with identification of products in a Pre-Deconstruction Audit and maps the process through to demount palletisation and transportation.  It documents the potential reuse routes back to manufacturers, via remanufacturing or to the third sector (charities etc), focussing on reuse from one commercial project to another. This captures actions for multiple stakeholders from client to manufacturer, contractor and deconstruction contractor.

Recipient Reuse
Recognising that successful reuse depends as much on the receiving project as the donor building, the Recipient Reuse flowchart details the steps for a recipient project to take to successfully incorporate both onsite or offsite products (from other projects) into a new project.  This captures actions for multiple stakeholders from client to architect, contractor and deconstruction contractor.

As the construction sector continues to reduce waste and lower embodied carbon, these new resources provide practical guidance to help organisations move from ambition to implementation. By clearly defining roles, responsibilities and decision points across the project lifecycle, the flowcharts aim to make product reuse more accessible, repeatable and scalable across the commercial built environment.

Hattie Emerson, FIS Project Reuse Manager said:

“These flowcharts have been developed to give the industry a practical framework for delivering reuse. By clearly mapping the responsibilities of stakeholders involved, they help remove uncertainty and demonstrate that reuse can become a standard part of commercial project delivery. As the market matures, we expect these resources to evolve alongside industry practice.”

The flowcharts are now available from the FIS website at and will be incorporated into the final Project Reuse guidance, providing a valuable resource for organisations committed to advancing circular construction and reducing the environmental impact of the built environment.

For further information or for any questions please contact Hattie Emerson or Flavie Lowres.

The Skills Centre, an approved training provider for the sector, delivers a range of NVQ qualifications.

As part of its commitment to supporting the sector, FIS members benefit from an exclusive 10% discount on each of the NVQs listed below, helping businesses and individuals achieve recognised qualifications while reducing training costs.

Level 3

• NVQ Diploma in Occupational Work Supervision
• NVQ Diploma in Construction Contracting Operations
• NVQ Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

Level 4

• NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Supervision – Building and Civil Engineering
• NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations – Supervising Lifts

Level 5

• NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations – Planning Lifts

Level 6

• NVQ Diploma in Construction Construction Contracting Operations Management
• NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management – Building and Civil Engineering
• NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice

Level 7

NVQ Diploma in Construction Senior Management

For more details and to access this funding email info@theskillscentre.co.uk or call 020 3621 1942.

FIS Member Note: Zentia Administration

FIS legal advisers, Hill Dickinson, have provided guidance for FIS members regarding the current administration of Zentia.

The note includes guidance on products already in situ on schemes that are nearing completion (i.e. in relation to the status of the product), as well as concerns regarding fulfilment of orders for existing products.

June 2026

Zentia (acoustic ceiling manufacturers) went into administration on 8 June.

Initial reports indicate production has ceased, and it is uncertain whether operations will resume or be acquired.

What might developers, construction professionals and contractors consider now where products have been specified on a project?

Regulatory Context and Duty holder Responsibilities

There is currently no advertised formal regulatory position that prevents the use of construction products supplied by a manufacturer in administration. However, established guidance makes clear that product compliance must be actively demonstrated throughout the lifecycle of a project. Legislation such as the Construction Products Regulations (CPR) and the Building Safety Act requires manufacturers to maintain Declarations of Performance (DoP) and valid UKCA or CE markings. The consistent message across this guidance is that responsibility sits firmly with dutyholders, including designers and contractors. It is not sufficient to rely on manufacturer assurances or historic approvals.

Implications of Manufacturer Insolvency

Insolvency poses a key risk by undermining access to, or confidence in, the information needed to evidence compliance.

The question is not about the status of the manufacturer, but the ability of dutyholders to evidence compliance at the point the product is used. Where that evidence remains complete, accessible and verifiable, the product may still be acceptable. Where it cannot be reliably obtained or validated, the risk profile changes significantly.

In practical terms, products become increasingly difficult to justify where test data cannot be accessed, certification cannot be confirmed, or ongoing technical support and lifecycle information are no longer available.

Gateway 2 and Higher-Risk Buildings

For Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs), these issues are amplified. Gateway 2 approval rests on demonstrating compliance, competence and traceability across the design and construction process.

If manufacturer insolvency undermines access to product evidence, or creates uncertainty about the reliability or completeness of that evidence, it may affect the basis on which approval was originally granted. In such cases, project teams may need to revisit design assumptions, initiate formal change control, or consider product substitution.

This is not simply a technical issue but one of regulatory assurance. Without demonstrable evidence, compliance cannot be confidently maintained.

Building Control Compliance

From a Building Control perspective, the key issue is whether any change arising from this situation affects the approved design or its performance characteristics.

Where a Zentia product is replaced on a like-for-like basis, and the alternative can be clearly shown to deliver equivalent or better performance without altering the design intent, the impact on Building Control approval may be limited. In these circumstances, the focus should remain on evidencing equivalence and ensuring that documentation is properly recorded within the project in line with BSA specifications.

However, where a replacement product differs in its performance, or where its introduction alters any aspect of the approved design, the position becomes more complex. Such changes must be treated as design changes and should be reviewed with the project designer. The Principal Designer must be satisfied that the revised solution continues to meet regulatory requirements, and that the change has been properly assessed and justified.

The position is more stringent still on Higher-Risk Buildings. Under the Higher-Risk Buildings (HRB) Procedures Regulations, changes to specified products may constitute either notifiable or major changes, depending on their nature and impact.

Where a substitution affects fire performance (for example, a fire-rated ceiling system), it is likely to be at least a notifiable change and may be classified as a major change where it alters or undermines the approved fire strategy or the basis of compliance. This reflects the fact that such elements may form part of the building’s passive fire protection strategy.

Major changes require formal approval and can’t be implemented without following the prescribed process. Failure to recognise and manage this correctly carries significant regulatory risk, including the potential to invalidate approvals or delay project progression.

In this context, the safest and most robust approach is to treat any product substitution as a potential design change unless it can be clearly demonstrated otherwise. Early engagement with the design team, the Principal Designer, and the Building Safety Regulator or Building Control Body is essential. All decisions should be supported by clear evidence, including performance comparisons and impact assessments, and fully documented within the project record.

Other Considerations

If a manufacturer warranty is no longer available or valid, this may affect the contractual position for the parties, particularly where warranties are required as part of the project deliverables.

One practical tip for a project team would be to act quickly to secure all relevant documentation. At present, product data remains available via Zentia’s website, but there is no guarantee as to how long this will remain the case. Consider downloading and retaining all relevant test reports, certifications and technical data.

Over the last 10 days FIS has briefed several Lords, attended separate meetings with the Small Business Commissioner (SBC), the Small Business Minister and Department of Business all looking to support the progress of the Commercial Payments Bill.  The Bill has taken a significant step forward completing its Second Reading in the House of Lords on 9 June.  The Bill is a landmark intervention to tackle late payment culture (across the UK).  At its core, the Bill brings together three strands of reform:

• Capped payment terms (60 days, or 30 days for certain public bodies)
• A fundamental reset of construction payment practices, including a ban on retentions
• A major expansion of the Small Business Commissioner’s powers

The good news is at the second reading debate, Peers in the Lords were clear – construction is one of the sectors most affected by late payment and poor practice, and reform here is a priority.   An area generating particular interest is the ability to exempt certain contracts from maximum payment terms.  At present FIS is not too concerned by the exemptions as, whilst adding a tier of complexity, they should not impact the core issue of power imbalance.  Proposed exemptions are limited to :

• where the purchaser is the smaller party,
• where both parties are large undertakings, or
• where categories are defined in future regulations (this is likely to be addressing particular sectoral issues that exist in industries such as publishing).

To manage exemptions, contracts must be in writing and explicitly state the exemption being relied on.  The proposed ban on retentions received broad support in principle, but with a clear message that implementation will be critical.  Debate in the Lords suggests scrutiny is likely to focus on:

• how the transition period operates in practice
• what replaces retentions as a risk management tool
• whether any unintended consequences emerge in contracting behaviour

Whilst principle is widely backed, but the mechanics are far from settled and there is more work to be done here.  Again we are reassured by discussions with the Minister and Civil Servants that Government is intent on preserving the core values that this Bill is intended to uphold, ending the abuse of retention and the practice of starving the supply chain of vital cash (termed in discussion as “unapproved credit”.

The Bill also transforms the role of the Small Business Commissioner (SBC) into a more active market regulator and in the meeting with the SBC we heard more about how fines for “persistent late payers” could be implemented.  It was particularly interesting to get early sight of new research into how different systems have been adopted across the globe.  The Minister again reassured that the intent it to ensure SMEs in Britain are working in a culture that encourages investment and growth and are not providing a line of “unapproved credit” to large corporations.    As it stands, the SBC will step up to:

• Provide advice, training and guidance across all sectors
• investigate persistent late payers and enforce reporting requirements
• use stronger enforcement powers, including sanctions

Importantly for construction:

• The intent is that fines for persistent late payers will be administered through the SBC
• Adjudication powers for the SBC will not apply to construction contracts, given the existing statutory regime
• However, they will apply to non-construction contracts involving construction businesses

This reflects a deliberate attempt to strengthen enforcement without duplicating the existing adjudication framework. There is recognition that changes will be required to the Construction Act to carry this into law and consultation will be required for this.    The Second Reading debate confirmed broad cross-party support for the Bill’s objectives and a clear recognition that late payment is a systemic issue requiring intervention.  But it also highlighted where attention will now turn:

• How exemptions are defined and controlled
• How the retentions ban is implemented in practice
• How the expanded SBC powers are deployed and resourced

With Committee Stage next, the Bill will now undergo line-by-line scrutiny, where many of these issues are likely to be tested and refined.  FIS are continuing to hold the line that late payment and retentions are more than commercial irritants, they impact decision-making, the transfer of risk and undermine investment in training, supervision, innovation and safety. When cash flow becomes uncertain, behaviours deteriorate.

We will continue to track developments closely as the Bill progresses and provide further updates over the coming months. In the meantime, please do get in touch with any queries or feedback.

You can see the full transcript of the Lords Debate here.

Silica dust remains one of the most serious, and often overlooked, killers in construction. Every day, workers are exposed to respirable crystalline silica, a hazard linked to life‑changing and fatal illnesses, yet awareness, training and consistency of control still vary widely across the industry.  This exposure is causing irreparable damage with direct links to cardiovascular, autoimmune and cancer risks.

Research funded by CIOB, led by Dr Scott McGibbon and supported by FIS is working to change that. The project is already highlighting critical gaps in knowledge, skills, and behaviours around silica dust management, from understanding legal duties and health impacts, to applying effective control measures and monitoring exposure.

This is where you come in.

Your experience will directly shape practical tools, industry guidance and training interventions designed to improve how we assess, control and manage dust risk across our sector – protecting both workers and the public. The outputs will influence real-world practices, from site decision-making to leadership capability and compliance approaches.

Take 5 minutes. Make a real difference.

We need as many industry voices as possible to build a credible, evidence-led response to this issue.

Please complete the survey now: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/t/T008FM/
And if you can share it with colleagues or contacts in your network – this is important.

The stronger the response, the greater the impact this work can have and the more people that understand the risk the better it will be.

Let’s not accept harmful exposure to dust is “part of the job” or stand by whilst people don’t think ahead to the impact on them and others, help us drive meaningful change.  Together we are stronger.

The skills shortage in the Finishes and Interiors Sector isn’t going away and addressing it will take a more joined-up, practical approach across our industry. That’s exactly what we’re working to deliver.

FIS has partnered with The Skills Centre to run a series of Skills Bootcamps designed to produce job-ready individuals who are trained, motivated, and ready to start work immediately.

Each candidate completes an intensive four-week programme, developed with industry input, combining hands-on training with the core practical skills required for dry lining and interior fit-out roles.

How you can get involved

We’re now looking for employers to support the next stage by helping these candidates transition into the workplace. You’ll be fully supported in structuring your involvement.

We’re seeking employers who can offer:

• Interviews
• Two-week work placements
• Job opportunities

What you’ll gain

• Early access to motivated, entry-level talent with relevant training
• A direct pipeline into your workforce
• Support in meeting social value and local employment commitments

When

You can visit and get involved during the following dates:

• 29 June and 10 July at the Build East Skills Centre – Bassett Lane, Stratford, London, E9 5EN

or

• 6 July, 10 July and 31 July at the Essex (Drylining Housing) – Unit 64, Horndon Industrial Estate, West Horndon, Brentwood CM13 3XD

This is a great opportunity to see the training in action, understand the process, and meet potential future employees.

We’re aiming to roll this model out more widely across the UK but its success depends on industry engagement.

If not you, who?

We need to build the workforce our sector needs – together.

If you’re interested in attending, or would like to learn more, please contact Marie at FIS marieflinter@thefis.org

FIS has submitted its response to the consultation on the proposed merger of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB), reflecting feedback from employers across the finishes and interiors sector.

While members recognised the potential benefits of closer collaboration between the two organisations, including improved coordination of skills policy and workforce planning, there is limited support for the merger as currently proposed.

Members expressed concerns that a larger organisation could become more bureaucratic and less responsive to the needs of specialist sectors and SMEs. Questions were also raised around levy value, access to funding, employer engagement and whether structural change alone would improve outcomes for industry.

Feedback emphasised that any future training body must remain employer led, maintain strong representation for specialist sectors and demonstrate clear value for levy paying businesses.

The response concludes that improving performance, accountability and accessibility should take priority over organisational restructuring unless there is clear evidence that a merger will deliver measurable benefits for employers, apprentices and workforce development.

As part of its submission, FIS noted that while a merger may offer administrative efficiencies, members remain unconvinced that it would improve support for specialist sectors or increase the value employers receive from the levy.