The old way of storing safety records in a filing cabinet (or worse, "in someone’s head") is over. WhatsApp group messages are no longer sufficient. Digital compliance isn’t just a recommendation; it is a legal requirement.  This is how you can start your digital journey...

Step by step approach:

1.  Understand the New Rules – The Building Safety Act (BSA) is now in full force. It’s not just another bureaucratic hurdle; it’s a legal requirement that redefines responsibilities across the sector. It will soon apply to ALL buildings.  

2.  Assess Your Compliance – Are you keeping accurate records? Can you prove, with digital documentation, that your projects meet safety standards? If not, you’re at risk of fines, reputational damage and prosecution.

3.  Take Ownership – Leadership in safety starts at the top. If your team doesn’t see you taking compliance seriously, neither will they.

4.  See the Opportunities – You could look at additional compliance measures as just another hurdle, or you could view this as a chance to transform your business for the better.

The Hackitt report identified significant flaws in the existing regulatory system.  The report emphasised the importance of maintaining digital records of buildings to ensure transparency and accountability throughout a building’s lifecycle.

The impact of regulatory changes

New regulations are set to change behaviours across the industry. The new Building Safety Regulator (BSR), a building control authority for higher-risk buildings, brings with it the threat of prosecution, which is expected to drive further improvements.  

Figures show that the rejection rate at Gateway 1 has already improved, dropping from 50% to 20%, indicating good progress.

Digitisation in the construction industry

Digitisation is a crucial component in the construction industry’s transformation, with its ability to enhance transparency, accuracy, and efficiency across various processes. Adopting digital tools will help the industry to better manage data, improve project insights, and maintain reliable, empirical processes that are easy to follow for large teams.

Digitisation should not be viewed as a cost to the business.  It can bring efficiencies which deliver a significant return on investment.

Advanced technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) already allow for more efficient planning and design, anticipating risks even before construction begins. 

This digital shift is essential for meeting social, environmental, and economic goals, as highlighted in the RICS Digitalisation in Construction report. 

Why now is the time to digitally transform

Think of digital tools as the hard hats and hi-vis vests of tomorrow’s construction site - waiting for regulatory mandates before embracing digital transformation can leave companies unprepared and at a disadvantage. By starting your digital journey now, you set the pace: you choose which tech to trial, where to invest, and how to train your team. That head start turns potential disruption into competitive advantage. Preparation and prioritisation today mean fewer headaches, and better projects tomorrow.

How itps can help

itps is a leading managed IT service provider helping businesses like yours transition smoothly into the digital era with secure cloud migration, fast data recovery, cyber protection, reliable connectivity, and responsive IT support.

Our digital compliance solutions are designed to take the hassle out of regulatory adherence. From cloud-based documentation systems to automated compliance tracking, itps ensures that your business stays ahead of the curve. Our solutions integrate seamlessly with Building Information Modelling (BIM) and other industry-leading technologies, providing a streamlined approach to safety, transparency, and efficiency.

To learn more, contact us today to speak to one of our experts.