This informal CPD article, ‘Mandatory Occurrence Report (MOR): A Crucial Component of Building Safety’, was provided by Black Boots Technology, a software company providing AI based technology to various industries where specific challenges exist.
A Mandatory Occurrence Reporting policy is a formal process for documenting incidents affecting a high-rise building's structural or fire safety. While the law mandates recording all fire safety and structural risks, the Building Safety Act specifically requires reporting only those safety occurrences posing a threat to the building or its occupants.
The policy should be treated as a step-by-step guide on how property management teams should handle Mandatory Occurrence Reporting, starting from the issue being raised, following each outlined step which should be taken to resolve the issue.
Understanding Mandatory Occurrence Reporting policy
The severity of the safety occurrences can typically range from major issues such as cracks, leaks, or corrosion to structural elements, but can also include issues that were previously considered minor but now require remediation. For example, if all fire doors failed inspection and remediation is necessary, this must be reported due to the potential risks to resident and building safety.
The importance of a Mandatory Occurrence Report (MOR) cannot be overstated, data collected through MOR are invaluable as they are designed to identify any structural and fire risks that might arise at any point throughout the life cycle of a building, preventing future incidents. Additionally, the data provides insight into a building’s performance, enabling the implementation of targeted safety measures. A robust Mandatory Occurrence Reporting system demonstrates a commitment to building safety and devotion to meeting regulatory requirements.
Background to MOR
The construction industry has undergone a seismic shift in recent years, driven largely by new regulatory frameworks. The Building Safety Act 2022 (1) stands as a cornerstone of this transformation, introducing stringent safety measures for high-rise buildings. Central to these new regulations is the Safety Case Report, a mandatory document serving as a detailed snapshot of the building’s safety. An integral component of this report is a Mandatory Occurrence Reporting system. Without a robust Mandatory Occurrence Reporting policy in place, a Safety Case Report is unlikely to be approved by the Building Safety Regulator.
Legal importance of MOR
A well-documented Mandatory Occurrence Report history provides a strong defence in legal disputes. By diligently recording incidents, conducting thorough investigations, and implementing corrective actions, duty holders demonstrate a strong commitment to safety. This proactive approach not only helps prevent accidents but also provides robust evidence to defend against potential legal claims, making a compelling case for the importance of Mandatory Occurrence Report in high-rise buildings.
The responsibility for implementing and managing a Mandatory Occurrence Reporting system lies with the duty holders of the building. These include:
- Principal contractor and principal designer: During the construction phase.
- Accountable person: Once the building is occupied.
It is essential that adequate steps are taken to ensure that all relevant parties are aware of the Mandatory Occurrence Reporting system and understand their reporting obligations. This includes providing clear guidance, training, and communication channels.
All fire and structural safety occurrences must be reported to the Building Safety Regulator as soon as possible, providing a written report within 10 days of becoming aware of the incident. The written report must include:
- The date and time of the safety occurrence
- The address of the site where the safety occurrence happened
- The name and contact details of the principal duty holder who is making the report
- The type and details of the safety occurrence, including the nature of the risk
- Details of the remedial measures or mitigation carried out
While all safety occurrences must be reported to the regulator, the BSR has provided a vague description of what counts towards a Mandatory Occurrence Report. In essence, any situation that can/will cause harm to life should be reported. To ensure all occurrences are reported and procedures followed, a detailed step-by-step guide within a Mandatory Occurrence Reporting policy is essential for reliability and consistency.
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REFERENCES
(1) https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-building-safety-act
