CIBSE has recently published its updated Inclusivity Guidelines for CIBSE Members, Volunteers and Staff, reinforcing its commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment across the Institution and the wider building services community.
Originally developed in 2019 under the leadership of then-President Lynne Jack, the first edition was produced by the CIBSE Inclusivity Panel. The newly released 2025 edition has been reviewed and updated by the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee, a standing committee to the CIBSE Board, in collaboration with its four panels:
- Women in Building Services Engineering
- Minority Ethnic Groups
- LGBTQI+
- Neurodiversity
More than 60 dedicated volunteers contributed to this work, bringing a wide range of perspectives and experiences to ensure the guidelines reflect the evolving needs of the CIBSE community.
The core principles of the guidelines remain consistent with the original, offering practical suggestions for members, volunteers and staff to help create a more inclusive culture. These principles are not only relevant within CIBSE roles but are also intended to be useful in members’ day-to-day professional lives.
Key updates include:
- Refreshed examples of good practice, reflecting changes in thinking and inclusive behaviours since 2019
- Expanded further reading, acknowledging the international nature of the CIBSE membership
- Removal of the ‘what to avoid’ section, focusing instead on positive, constructive action
- A soft blue background, incorporated following a recommendation by the Neurodiversity Panel, to improve accessibility for those who may find white backgrounds challenging
CIBSE thanks everyone who contributed to this update for their time and insights. To provide feedback, or to learn more about how to get involved in the EDI panels, please email: [email protected]