CIPS welcomes the findings of Phase 2 Report of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry

05 September 2024

The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) welcomes the findings of Phase 2 Report of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, following the devastating fire on 14 June 2017 when 72 people lost their lives.

CIPS welcomes this hugely significant report that highlights serious, multiple failings by companies in the construction sector, the local authority, London Fire Brigade, and governments dating back to the 1990s. The report also points to failings in building regulations and fire safety. CIPS initially chaired the Procurement Working Group as part of the Hackitt Review of building regulation and fire safety (and leading to the Building a Safer Future report). CIPS continues to be involved in this process. What became clear is that there were many examples of poor commercial practices in the years leading up to the fire, focusing on price and margin at the expense of safety.

Matt Howell, CIPS chief executive, says: “As we take time to remember the victims of this awful tragedy, their families and the local community, we must make sure such an event never happens again. The Phase 2 report once again reinforces the need for professional procurement practices, competencies and knowledge to be upheld across all decisions made in the build and maintenance of Higher Risk Residential Buildings. Professional procurement practice will always prioritise safety and quality over decisions made purely on cost. An improvement in the competence of people involved in procurement activities is crucial so that better decisions are taken at all levels of the construction supply chain."

The Hackitt review led to the development of a procurement competency tool to demonstrate that people involved in all aspects of sourcing, contracting and management of suppliers have the expected capabilities and knowledge for their role. Work continues on this tool to keep it up to date and relevant to all parties.