London Fire Brigade has completed all actions required of it in response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations, with further changes introduced across organisational learning, firefighter communications and training.
The milestone follows the completion in 2024 of every recommendation directed specifically to the Brigade in the Inquiry’s Phase 1 Report.
Organisational learning strengthened
The Phase 2 work has included changes to how London Fire Brigade identifies, shares and embeds lessons from operational incidents.
Drawing on approaches used in sectors including healthcare and aviation, the Brigade has introduced arrangements intended to create a more open and supportive learning culture.
Lessons arising from operational incidents, inquests and investigations can now be identified and translated into practical improvements more quickly.
Significant incidents are prioritised to enable risk critical information to be shared rapidly with operational personnel.
Communications resilience improved
The Brigade has also undertaken work to improve the resilience of firefighter radio communications during incidents, particularly within high rise buildings.
Training has been strengthened to prepare firefighters to respond to a loss of communications during an emergency.
Further training covers water supply systems and hydrants, alongside techniques for increasing water flow and pressure during major incidents.
Phase 1 reforms continue
The latest changes build on reforms introduced following the Inquiry’s Phase 1 Report, which covered operational policies, incident command, training, emergency call handling, communications and equipment.
Investment from the Mayor of London has supported changes to equipment and operational capabilities.
New breathing apparatus incorporating radios has been introduced to improve communication between crews during emergencies, alongside measures designed to strengthen communications between London’s emergency services.
Equipment and building information upgraded
London Fire Brigade has also introduced 64 metre turntable ladders and developed the capability to receive and store electronic building plans for use by crews responding to critical incidents.
London Fire Commissioner Jonathan Smith said: “The Grenfell Tower tragedy was a profound moment for London Fire Brigade. We remember the 72 people who lost their lives, and our thoughts remain with the bereaved, survivors and everyone whose lives were changed forever by that night.
“Completing all the remaining recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry is an important milestone for the Brigade. The changes that we have implemented mean that we are now better prepared to respond to incidents, and Londoners today are safer as a result.
“We will continue working with our partners across government and the fire and rescue sector to ensure the lessons of Grenfell are learnt and this continues to shape everything we do.”
