CIOB supports the intention to strengthen the building standards system in Scotland; to improve clarity of guidance; to explore mechanisms to ensure that buildings are designed and constructed according to standards; and to enable verification processes that assure quality and safety.

We therefore welcomed the Scottish Government's review of fire safety standards and guidance. It provides an important opportunity to address areas within the building standards system where clarity, consistency and enforceability can be improved; ensure that future changes to the system are implemented in a proportionate and effective manner; and mitigate any negative consequences that could result from these changes. The current guidance has developed over many years, and while the existing framework remains broadly robust, there is a clear benefit in reviewing how standards and supporting guidance are presented, interpreted, and applied in practice.