Government building plans welcomed, but employee health and safety must be a priority, says Veriforce CHAS
Veriforce CHAS, a UK-based leader in supply chain risk management and contractor assessment, has expressed strong support for the Government's plans to expedite the UK’s planning system and boost construction efforts. However, with a rise in construction related fatalities in recent years, CHAS is emphasising that health and safety must remain the utmost priority as the UK scales up its building capacity.
The Government’s planning reforms, which include a pledge to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years, necessitate a significant increase in construction labour. With the latest figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealing an alarming rise in construction-related fatalities - there were 51 fatalities in 2023/24, up 42% from the average of the last four years - CHAS is stressing the crucial need for leading clients in the construction industry to ensure that subcontractors are not only available but also adequately qualified for new projects.
CHAS accreditation: Ensuring high standards in health and safety
CHAS accreditation provides a robust framework for contractors to demonstrate their commitment to high health and safety standards. This certification not only makes contractors an attractive choice for clients but also gives the reassurance that they are engaging with responsible and safety-conscious professionals.
Supporting small businesses and startups to bridge the labour gap
Labour shortages are a perennial issue in the construction industry. However, data from the Office for National Statistics shows a 19% increase in the number of new construction businesses registered between 2017 and 2022, with 374,332 firms now operating in the construction industry across the UK. At the same time, CHAS is witnessing a surge in demand for CHAS Foundation, an entry level membership which offers a pathway to health and safety qualifications for construction startups and expanding contractors.
CHAS Foundation is a free educational and resource hub for construction start-ups and SMEs seeking help with health and safety compliance and enhanced risk management practices. CHAS Foundation members can access free guides and courses on various topics, such as completing risk assessments and handling hazardous materials. This puts them on the path to competing for subcontracting opportunities with larger clients, ultimately helping to bridge the labour gap in the industry.
CHAS Managing Director, Ian McKinnon, commented: “At Veriforce CHAS, we welcome the new government's commitment to revitalising Britain's construction sector and the employment opportunities it promises to create. However, it is crucial to prioritise health and safety throughout this process, especially in light of recent HSE statistics showing a concerning rise in construction-related fatalities.
“With the right support, such as that provided by CHAS Foundation and our other membership levels, construction startups and established contractors with an appetite for growth can ensure they embed safe and responsible work practices into their operations from the outset, helping to meet new building targets.
“We are also ready to support clients and main contractors in finding qualified tradespeople and sub-contractors through our free contractor management platform, VeriforceONE.”
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