Tragedy waiting to happen

SIX months after the Grenfell Tower catastrophe, investigations are still dragging on. Why is it difficult to resolve why the fire happened?

The architects specified a cladding and thermal insulation that was a known fire risk, even by its manufacturer, and non-compliant with building regulations.

The local authority building control officer approved that after consultation with the local fire brigade. The builder constructed as specified, but missed out the vital fire stops required at every compartment wall and floor, and window and door opening, which prevent the rapid spread of fire.

The building control officer inspected as work progressed and issued a final certificate stating the building complied with regulations.

The guiding principle is that all material has to be fit for the purpose of its use. So why was aluminium composite panel installed, which burnt in the fire, over combustible thermal insulation that produced hydrogen cyanide that killed so many residents and damaged the health of those who escaped?

JOHN WRIGHT, retired building control consultant, Northampton.