Jun 29 2007
With thousands of practices already signed up, the RIBA Chartered Practice accreditation scheme, which has replaced the RIBA Register of Practices, will officially launch on 1 July 2007. RIBA Registered Practice status will cease from 30 June 2007.
Registration for the new scheme has been extremely successful, with the number of RIBA Chartered Practices already signed up exceeding RIBA targets. Already there have been over 2200 to sign up to the scheme. Practices can continue to join the scheme, which is not compulsory, after the launch date.
The RIBA Chartered Practice Scheme is a client-focused accreditation scheme for architectural practices which aims to offer better services and protect the public. The scheme was initiated in response to clients’ requirements, increased public and government pressure for consumer protection, and architects seeking increased promotional support.
Accreditation brings RIBA Chartered Practices a comprehensive benefits package, regardless of size or location. Business benefits range from enhanced promotional and lead-generating opportunities, to specific products and services including legal guidance.
Speaking about the scheme, John Assael, Managing Director, Assael Architecture said:
“We are enthusiastic supporters of the RIBA Chartered Practice accreditation scheme. This is a way of benchmarking both large and small practices so that staff, clients, Local Authorities and government agencies as well as contractors and suppliers can be confident that a practice with Chartered Practice status has had to satisfy compliance with strict standards relating to quality management systems and supporting staff.
“We particularly support the principle enshrined in the accreditation that requires that practices treat their staff properly by means of comprehensive Employment and Health and Safety Policies, and in particular comply with the RIBA employment regulations regarding students, so that they are allocated appropriate experience, have a mentor and an additional 10 days study leave to pursue their professional examinations.
“This accreditation will promote the profession; not only do we design and manage our buildings well, but we also support the sound management principles that enable us to do so by professionally managing our projects, staff and businesses. Architects will be seen to be finally catching up with fellow professionals like Chartered Surveyors and Solicitors. And about time.”
Eric Guibert, Sens Architects added:
“Like many small practices, we looked into getting Iso accreditation and realised that we couldn’t afford the cost and time involved in a process designed for large companies. For this reason I strongly welcomed the Chartered Practice Scheme. It will give us, the small practices, the opportunity to demonstrate our professionalism to our clients.”