Spec Finish

03 Voice of the industry Iain McIlwee, FIS Chief Executive, discusses a common story that many will recognise and ultimately one that signposts a better future for construction, but also serves as a warning. 06 News round-up We highlight what’s been happening in the finishes and interiors sector. 08 Skills A new scheme to record and store proof of competence. 10 Feature See what two FIS members’ multi-million-pound investments will mean to the sector, local community, and the environment. 12 Technical FIS launches a new ‘through- wall’ infill SFS Systems guide. 13 Technical We discuss the BS EN 13964 a crucial document regarding suspended ceiling products. 14 Feature Challenges that the FIS members are going to face and have to overcome in the coming years when it comes to building regulations and fire safety. 16 Legal Why FIS members need to consider the new statutory limitation periods under the Building Safety Act 2022. 18 Sustainability FIS members show us how they are delivering resource efficiency, adaptability/ flexibility or health and wellbeing, biophilic design. 20 Feature A discussion on the scrutiny of passive fire protection and service penetrations. 22 Design ‘The Power of Place: The true cost of inaction’ report, shines a light on the continued importance of physical workplaces in this post-pandemic world. 27 Community news 30 Innovations Welcome IN THIS ISSUE EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Joe Cilia Joe is FIS Technical Director Flavie Lowres Flavie is FIS Sustainability Champion Neil Shaw Neil is Etex Country Manager Ian Stokes Ian is Knauf UK Managing Director Geoff Wilkinson Geoff isWilkinson Construction Consultants Managing Director and a building inspector Rudi Klein Rudi is a Barrister and Professor Carrie Blackshaw Carrie is Minster’s Fire Protection Sales Director www.thefis.org 5 elco e George Swann George is FIS Skills and Training Lead