Calls for longer site hours for construction workers

Build UK is liaising with the Local Government Association to facilitate the extension of permitted working hours for construction sites across the country.

The leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry has revealed the news in its latest briefing.

Prior to the coronavirus crisis, local planning authorities put restrictions on the hours that construction work can be carried out. However, there are calls that this is relaxed to get work going again.

In the latest update, Build UK says it is focussing on:

• Opening up the supply chain by demonstrating the demand for materials.
• Liaising with the Local Government Association to facilitate the extension of permitted working hours for construction sites across the country.
• Assessing the availability of hotel accommodation for construction workers living away from home.
• Seeking further guidance from Public Health England on the use of PPE and RPE and the interpretation of 15 minutes’ face to face contact as set out. In the Government’s guidance.

Build UK is also involved in the Construction Leadership Council Task Force which is:

• Working on a review of Government-backed loans and their suitability for construction businesses.
• Alternatives to invoking contractual clauses which are likely to be detrimental to the supply chain.
• An industry recovery plan.
• Releasing workers from furlough following the lockdown.
• Advice on re-opening offices extended periods of closure.

Photo credit: Sirisak baokaew/Shutterstock

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