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SAEMA News

SAEMA welcomes Principle Cleaning as new member

SAEMA is delighted to welcome Principle Cleaning Services (Principle Cleaning) as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is fully safe

SAEMA User Training Part 1 – 750th card issued

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is proud to announce that 750 people have now been issued with a virtual card, signifying they have passed Part 1 of SAEMA User Training. SAEMA User Training, which was launched

SAEMA USER TRAINING – A UNIQUE OPTION FOR THOSE WHO WORK AT HEIGHT

SAEMA User Training, which was launched in January 2021, is a unique way for those who work at height to be assessed on their technical understanding of the processes and equipment involved. Part 1 of the User Training is a

The No Falls Foundation Supporter Scheme

SAEMA has become an official supporter of No Falls Foundation, the charity dedicated to the work at height sector. The Foundation is striving for a world where everyone who works at height comes back down safely. That’s why we joined

SAEMA’S GUIDANCE ON BEST PRACTICE FOR SAFE WORKING

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to reduce accidents when working at height on construction sites. The SAEMA technical committee meets several times during the year and produces

SAEMA is delighted to welcome Access Lifting Pulling & Safety Ltd. (ALPS) as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is

Issues with obtaining the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Suspended Access Installation

There are some temporary issues with the supply chain responsible for assessing the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Suspended Access Installation. The number of assessors who are qualified and experienced in assessing the installation of suspended access equipment has been

SAEMA attends the long-awaited three-day event in Birmingham

From Tuesday 7th to Thursday 9th September, SAEMA attended the long-awaited Health and Safety Event at Birmingham’s NEC. The association was proud to represent the cause of improving workplace safety standards alongside our partners the Access Industry Forum (AIF). SAEMA

SAEMA IS AT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY EVENT 2021

Today, SAEMA (Specialist Access Equipment & Maintenance Association) takes its place at the Health & Safety Event at the NEC in Birmingham. We are proud to represent the cause of improving workplace safety standards alongside our partners the Access Industry

Gearing up for the Health & Safety Event: 7th to 9th September

SAEMA (Specialist Access Equipment & Maintenance Association) is looking forward to taking its place at the Health & Safety Event at the NEC in Birmingham. We are proud to represent the cause of improving workplace safety standards alongside our partners

SAEMA User Training Part 2 – now launched

Important message on NVQ Assessment

Due to circumstances outside SAEMA’s control, the industry has a temporary shortage of NVQ Assessors for Suspended Access Equipment. Please be assured that SAEMA is working hard to resolve this temporary problem. We will update our news and social media

SAEMA User Training (Part 1) – 250th card issued

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is proud to announce that 250 people have now been issued with a virtual card, signifying they have passed Part 1 of SAEMA User Training. SAEMA User Training, which was launched

FASET and SAEMA manager Tony Seddon on becoming PASMA trained

An interview with Tony Seddon, Company Secretary of SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association) by PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association) has given a refreshing insight into the approach taken to height safety – both from the beginner’s

SAEMA is delighted to welcome Eurosafe Solutions Ltd as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is fully safe and compliant,

SAEMA welcomes new member, Introland

SAEMA is delighted to welcome Introland (EHS) as a new member. SAEMA has over 20 member organisations working in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Each enjoys peace of mind that their business is fully safe and compliant, playing

SAEMA welcomes Power Climber as a new member SAEMA is delighted to welcome another new member organisation – Power Climber. Power Climber has been designing, engineering and manufacturing hoists, platforms, rigging equipment, safety gear and accessories for the suspended access

Industry News

Construction Product Availability Statement

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety. We are pleased to share the following statement from John Newcomb, CEO of the

UK ECONOMY COULD BE UP TO £17BN A YEAR BETTER OFF IF THE NATION’S WORKFORCE GETS PHYSICALLY ACTIVE

New research from Deloitte shows that getting the nation’s workforce physically active could benefit the UK economy by up to £17bn a year. That’s why ukactive has called on the Government and its partners to work with the fitness and

SAFETY MESSAGE CAN BE REINFORCED THROUGH COMPETENCE AND COMPLIANCE AWARD

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has launched a new award designed to give contractors an extra incentive to prepare for dramatic changes to safety legislation. The new Building Safety Act, which received Royal Assent in April and will come into effect

BPF LAUNCHES NET ZERO PLEDGE TO UNITE INDUSTRY IN TACKLING CARBON EMISSIONS

The British Property Federation (BPF) has launched its Net Zero Pledge – an industry-wide initiative to cut carbon emissions across the whole of the property sector. With the built environment accounting for up to 40% of global green-house gas emissions,

CLEAN AIR DAY – IS THERE A CASE FOR BETTER VENTILATION?

Research released by the event’s organiser Global Action Plan established for the first time that air pollution affects every major organ in the human body, but that most people think it is only harmful to their lungs. The important role

PTSG transforms youngster’s life with trainee engineer position

Premier Technical Services Group Ltd (PTSG) has given Jack Phelps a new start in life, after the 20-year-old was battling mental health issues and facing rejection from the jobs he was applying for. Jack is the son of Rob Phelps, an

Working at home or in the office: which is more energy efficient?

For European office workers who commute by public transport, over the course of a whole year, it is generally more energy efficient to travel into the office than to work from home despite there being a lot of variables at

FBU critical of government rejection of key Grenfell inquiry recommendation for disabled people

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) is so critical of the rejection of a key Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendation, on the evacuation of disabled residents of high-rise buildings, it has written to the government to demand it rethinks its decision. The

More household names from UK construction have committed to help drive carbon out of the industry as part of the Construction Leadership Council’s CO2nstruct Zero campaign. CO2nstruct Zero brings together businesses from across the sector to deliver the change needed

RoSPA Facilities Management Sector Award goes to Vertas Group

Vertas Group is celebrating after collecting an internationally-recognised award for demonstrating high health and safety standards. Vertas Group has been named the winner of the RoSPA Facilities Management Sector Award for working hard to ensure its colleagues, customers, clients and contractors,

HSE CHAIR SETS OUT FUTURE AIMS AND CHALLENGES

HSE respiratory health site inspection initiative for the construction sector

On Thursday 26th May, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) issued an eBulletin communicating that there will be site inspections across Great Britain throughout June 2022. The visits are an integral part of HSE’s wider-phased, strategic plan developed to improve

CIBSE PRESIDENT’S VISION BACKED BY BESA

The new CIBSE President Kevin Mitchell has a campaign to inspire a new generation of engineers who can help society solve its big technical and scientific challenges – and the building services industry has been urged to rally behind it.

PUBLIC BUILDING UPGRADES WILL LEAD TO SAVING OF £650 MILLION PER YEAR FOR TAXPAYERS

Hundreds of public buildings across England including hospitals, schools, libraries, museums and leisure centres will cut their use of expensive fossil fuels and save millions of pounds on bills, thanks to £553 million in government funding for affordable, low carbon

Leading industry bodies join forces for UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard

A cross-industry steering group, representing stakeholders across the built environment, has joined together to develop a standard for verifying UK buildings as net zero carbon. The UKGBC’s Whole Life Carbon Roadmap demonstrates that buildings are directly responsible for around a

“GRENFELL BUILDING SAFETY BODY SHOULD BE NATIONALISED” – FBU

The Fire Brigades Union is campaigning for the Building Research Establishment (BRE) to be renationalised. The commitment came in the form of a motion passed at the union’s annual conference, the first in-person conference since the pandemic. In the union’s

GUIDANCE ON ANTI-COMPETITIVE BEHAVIOUR IN CONSTRUCTION

Build UK has published guidance, written by @WedlakeBell, on preventing anti-competitive behaviour in construction, including cartel activities and cover pricing. It will help members meet legal obligations by explaining risks and steps they should take: 1.What is a business cartel

National Construction College hosts SkillBuild regional heat

We are pleased to share this story from the CITB about the largest and longest-running construction skills competition in the UK, which kicked off two weeks ago, with the SkillBuild 2022 regional heats currently underway. SkillBuild is delivered by CITB

BUILDING SAFETY ACT IS CHANGING THE INDUSTRY

The Building Safety Act is set to have a big impact on our industry, according to the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). The act has been given royal assent. The secondary legislation needed to turn the main proposals of the Act

PTSG IS ‘ROSPA HIGHLY COMMENDED’ IN THE WATER INDUSTRY SECTOR AWARD

Premier Technical Services Group Ltd (PTSG) has received confirmation from the RoSPA Awards Adjudication Panel that it has been awarded the RoSPA Highly Commended in the Water Industry Sector Award. The award was in recognition of constituent company HCS Water Treatment

APRIL SEES DECLINE IN CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY

REPORT LAUNCHED BY UKGBC FOR MAKING BUILT ASSETS CLIMATE RESILIENT

The UK Green Building Council has launched the Innovation Insights report, which includes the best solutions submitted to this year’s Resilience and NBS Challenges. A spokesperson said: “Our climate is changing and the impacts on our buildings, infrastructure and way of

PUBLICATION OF LOW CARBON CONCRETE ROUTEMAP

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety. A group of experts from across the construction industry has proposed a standardised carbon

NEBOSH has launched a new solution to help businesses improve their in-company training. NEBOSH is one of the world’s leading providers of health and safety qualifications. The NEBOSH Endorsed service will – as its name suggests – endorse great health

NEW COMPETENCY SCHEME TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND SAFETY IN THE METAL RECYCLING SECTOR

The first professionally recognised contractor competency scheme to improve health and safety in the metal recycling sector has been developed by CIWM in association with BMRA. It provides proof of skills, competence and qualifications through recognised credentials. The Chartered Institution

GOVERNMENT NEEDS TO “THINK AGAIN” OVER AIR QUALITY TARGETS

The government has been urged by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) to “be more ambitious” with its proposed changes to air quality standards. The Environment Act 2021 requires the government to set at least one long-term target for air

Manchester construction company fined after building collapse

A construction company in Manchester was fined after the majority of a three-bedroom domestic property in Stretford collapsed during a loft conversion and ground floor extension work. Manchester Magistrates’ Court heard that on 4 May 2020, Mughal Construction Limited had

Government agreement will see developers helping to fund building safety

The government has announced a wide-ranging agreement that will see developers in the construction industry contribute £5 billion to address the building safety scandal. In a victory for leaseholders, Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove has agreed a solution with the

ROSPA GOLD AWARD WIN FOR BOUYGUES E&S

Totalling 10 consecutive GOLDs from RoSPA, Bouygues E&S Solutions has been awarded the RoSPA’s President Award. This reflects the company’s position as a world leader in health and safety practice. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is

‘SAFE HAVENS’ BLUEPRINT FOR AIR QUALITY LAUNCHED BY BESA

The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has completed its trilogy of free guides designed to help building owners and managers turn their buildings into ‘safe havens’ that protect occupants from health risks linked to airborne contaminants and viruses. ‘Buildings as

FIRST FAIR PAY REPORT PUBLISHED BY WATES

The Wates Group has published its first Fair Pay report, which shows an improvement in its gender pay gap. The Group – the UK’s leading family-owned construction, residential development, and property services company – reported an improvement in both its mean

HSE inspections target woodworking businesses to tackle occupational lung disease

Ventilation, protective equipment and appropriate guarding are some of the measures businesses should consider as Britain’s workplace regulator is carrying out inspections to protect the respiratory health of workers. From April, health and safety inspectors across Great Britain will be

Ground Control certifies as a B Corporation

Leading external maintenance business and biodiversity expert Ground Control today certifies as a B Corporation (or B Corp). Ground Control joins a growing cohort of companies reinventing business by pursuing purpose as well as commercial success. Ground Control has been

Five more firms join CO2nstruct Zero

Momentum continues to build around CO2nstruct Zero, the industry’s united response to the need to drive carbon out of construction. Today (4 April 2022) five more companies from across the broad spectrum of construction have signed up to become CO2nstruct

TILBURY DOUGLAS RECEIVES ROSPA AWARDS FOR ITS OUTSTANDING HEALTH & SAFETY ACHIEVEMENTS

Tilbury Douglas Construction and Tilbury Douglas Engineering have both received a Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) Order of Distinction Award, making it 22 and 21 years of consecutive Gold Awards, respectively. Organisations receiving a RoSPA Award, the

GUIDANCE NOTE FOR THE INDUSTRY RESPONSE TO THE UKRAINE CRISIS PUBLISHED

The Construction Leadership Council has today (29 March 2022) published a document intended to support UK firms respond to the impacts of the current crisis in Ukraine. Companies from across UK construction have reported emerging challenges that have arisen because

Principal contractor sentenced for unsafe excavation work

The story below, shared from the website of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), is one of many examples of the importance of taking an uncompromising approach to site safety. A principal contractor has been sentenced after he was found

Tool launched to enable organisations to accelerate a culture of Fairness, Inclusion and Respect

The Supply Chain Sustainability School (the “School”) has partnered with major construction clients and contractors, to develop and launch the Fairness, Inclusion & Respect Growth Assessment. This freely available web-based tool has been specifically designed for the construction industry and allows organisations, large

Lowest ever accident frequency rate achieved for NG Bailey

Safety has always been first and foremost at NG Bailey, so it is thrilled to have recorded its lowest ever accident frequency rate. An AFR of 0.02 was achieved over the last financial year (February 2021 – February 2022), which

CONSTRUCTION HITS FIRST TARGET ON ROADMAP TO NET ZERO

The construction sector has hit its first target in its campaign to drive carbon out of the sector. Last year the Construction Leadership Council launched its CO2nstruct Zero industry change programme with the aim of eradicating carbon from buildings and

COMPANY FINED AFTER WORKER SUFFERED FALL FROM HEIGHT

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety. The following report from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is a sobering reminder

Progress for Women in Work falls for first time in ten years – PwC 2022 Women in Work Index

The COVID-19 pandemic has set back progress towards gender equality in work across the OECD by at least two years, according to analysis conducted for PwC’s annual Women in Work Index, which measures progress in women’s employment outcomes across 33 OECD

£288 million Green Heat Network Fund opens for green heating projects

Businesses across England are set to benefit from greener heating as a £288 million government Green Heat Network fund scheme is opened – boosting the roll out of next generation heat network projects as part of cutting emissions. Schemes that

Domestic falls from height

AVAILABLE FROM APRIL: CSCS.UK.COM / SMARTCHECK

In December the CSCS announced the new CSCS Smart Check app, developed by the 38 card schemes displaying the CSCS logo. It is set to radically improve the construction industry’s card checking procedures and site safety. The roll out of the

Mayor to help leaseholders get vital building safety information

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has today set out how he expects landlords and managing agents to help London leaseholders get hold of vital EWS1 building safety forms. Nearly five years since the tragic Grenfell Tower fire that claimed

COMPANY FINED AFTER ELECTRICIAN DIED FOLLOWING FALL FROM CRANE PLATFORM

The most common kind of fatal accident to workers continues as falls from a height, being struck by a moving vehicle and being struck by a moving object, between them accounting for over half of all fatal accidents to workers

Professional institutions warn of dire consequences of new Building Safety plans

The Construction Industry Council (CIC) has warned that late Government amendments to its Building Safety Bill – including plans to extend defects liability – are unworkable and could force competent professionals to leave the sector, have a negative impact on

Grenfell Tower Inquiry: ‘Government knew that cladding shouldn’t have been used from September 2002’

Central government knew that the type of cladding used on Grenfell Tower should “never ever” have been used above 18 meters from the middle of September 2002, evidence at the Grenfell Tower Inquiry confirms. Former Building Research Establishment director Debbie

RODNEY MARAGE 1969 – 2022

Everyone in the at-height sector was deeply saddened to learn that Rodney Marage, General Manager and Company Secretary of IRATA, died on 2 February 2022. Rodney will be fondly remembered as a champion for the work at height community and

TrustMark and HSE to Develop ‘One-Stop Shop’ Home Improvement App

TrustMark with the HSE is to develop a new and unique ‘one-stop shop’ home improvement App, aimed at helping consumers to better understand the process, requirements and considerations around having home improvement work carried out in their property. Working in

BE Offices extends long-term relationship with LSI Energy as part of business decarbonisation strategy

Leading flexible workspace provider BE Offices has taken great strides along the path to a carbon neutral future. The UK government recently set the world’s most ambitious climate change target to reduce emissions by 78% by 2035, which has put

Five FM providers achieve Platinum score in the SFMI

Leading facilities management (FM) companies have demonstrated real progress in sustainability, with VINCI Facilities achieving a Platinum score in the Sustainable Facilities Management Index (SFMI) for a second year running. Five FM services providers have achieved a Platinum score in

FREE EMPLOYER COVID TOOLKIT

As part of its campaign encouraging everyone to get vaccinated against COVID‐19, the Government has published a free employer toolkit containing a range of resources to increase workplace awareness and provide reliable and accurate information on vaccines: https://coronavirusresources.phe.gov.uk/covid-19-vaccine/resources/employer-toolkit/ Image: Shutterstock

Suspended sentence for owner of Merseyside roofing firm

Final Version of PAS 9980:2022 Published

We are pleased to share the following story on fire safety in multi-storey buildings, first published by the Construction Health Safety Group (CHSG). PAS 9980:2022 provides a methodology for the fire risk appraisal of external wall construction and cladding of

SHARING THE SECRETS OF NET-ZERO

CONIAC PRODUCES ESSENTIAL MESSAGES ON SAFE WORK AT HEIGHT

Roofer dies falling through asbestos sheets

CONSTRUCTING THE GOLD STANDARD

Directors fined for unlicensed asbestos removal

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety. Our aim is to reduce accidents on site that occur as a result of

Construction Product Availability Statement

We are pleased to share the following statement on construction product availability from John Newcomb, CEO of the Builders Merchants Federation and Peter Caplehorn, CEO of the Construction Products Association, co-chairs of the Construction Leadership Council’s Product Availability working group.

SITE OPERATING PROCEDURES – VERSION 9

SAEMA is pleased to share the following from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). In response to the Omicron variant, the CLC is republishing the Site Operating Procedures to provide up to date guidance for sites. The Site Operating Procedures – Version

VACCINATION WEBINAR

We are pleased to share the following from Builduk.org, the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry. @citationltd will be hosting a free webinar on Thursday 27 January from 10:00am – 11:00am on vaccination and testing of employees. The

HOUSING SECRETARY TELLS DEVELOPERS TO REMOVE UNSAFE CLADDING FROM LOWER-HEIGHT BUILDINGS

SAEMA is pleased to report on the following government initiative designed to increase safety in residential tower buildings. In an ultimatum issued by Housing Secretary Michael Gove, property developers have until March to agree a system of payments to fix

LEGALLY-BINDING TARGETS OF THE ENVIRONMENT ACT

Last year the Environment Act was passed to protect our environment by improving air and water quality, restoring natural habitats, increasing biodiversity and reducing waste changes will be driven by legally binding targets and enforced from early 2022: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/world-leading-environment-act-becomes-law This

BURNS ACCIDENT HIGHLIGHTS VITAL IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY MEASURES FOR FMS

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share the following story regarding an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) into a serious injury at work. A construction company and its ground works service

Company fined after employee sustains serious injuries in fall from height

The following story published by the Health and Safety Executive is another reminder that the use of ladders must always be properly planned and proper measures taken to prevent accidents. A North-East manufacturer of artificial trees, plants and flowers has

COMPANY FINED AFTER WORKER FALLS AND SUFFERS SERIOUS INJURIES

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to stay up to date with all the latest news affecting our members in the working-at-height industry. We are pleased to share

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19): WORKING SAFELY

With the COVID pandemic dominating headlines and changing our behaviour as we head into the festive period, we are pleased to share the following advice from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). To help employers protect people at work we

COVID-19 RULES UPDATE

New CSCS Smart Check app to revolutionise card verification procedures

A new app, developed by the 38 card schemes displaying the CSCS logo, is set to radically improve the construction industry’s card checking procedures and site safety. The CSCS Smart Check app represents a major step forward as, for the

HSE’s Safety Climate Tool

We are pleased to share the following article from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. The Safety Climate Tool has been carefully designed by scientists to deliver an objective measure of your

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT RECORDS LARGEST MONTHLY DECLINE SINCE APRIL 2020

The Office for National Statistics published an estimate of construction output for October 2021 on Friday 10th December: Construction output fell 1.8% in volume terms in October 2021, this is the largest monthly decline since April 2020 when output fell

DON’T LET LIGHTS AND DECORATIONS TURN INTO A FESTIVE HANGOVER

We are pleased to share the following article from IPAF, the International Powered Access Federation, one of our industry partners and an important ally in our drive to raise the standards of safety when working at height. Putting up and

CLC Face Covering Guidance Updated

The use of face coverings in response to coronavirus is mandatory in areas of retail open to the public and on public transport, in taxis and private hire vehicles. Face coverings should also be worn in other crowded and enclosed

SAEMA member featured in Channel 5 series

Tony Robinson is currently exploring the hidden wonders of the 215-mile River Thames in Channel 5’s documentary The Thames At Night. Through the course of the four-part Channel 5 series, historian Tony examines the fascinating world of work that goes

Digital Musculoskeletal (MSD) Assessment Tool

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, works with a number of charities and trade organisations, all of which share our aim of reducing and ultimately eliminating accidents that occur

Putting training in context

PASMA launch new training hub

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association) is a long-time partner of PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association). Tony Seddon, Company Secretary of SAEMA recently took the PASMA Towers for Users course with Shropshire County Trainers, one of PASMA’s

HSE’S WORKING MINDS CAMPAIGN

CLC People Survey – November 2021

There are just a few days to go to submit your responses to the fifth CLC People Survey, before the deadline this Friday. Build UK will be using the results to improve the journey for young people from education into

CLC WRITES REGARDING UK CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS REGULATIONS

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has written to The Rt Hon Michael Gove MP, Secretary of State, Department for Levelling Up, Housing, Communities and Local Government and The Rt Hon Kwasi Kwarteng, Secretary of State, Department for Business, Energy and Industrial

HSE launches Working Minds campaign to encourage employers to promote good mental health in work

Construction industry showcases ‘Building a Greener Britain’ at COP26

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has linked up with ITN Productions Industry News to announce its ‘Building a Greener Britain’ programme as its contribution to deliver a zero-carbon built environment at COP26. The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has linked up

Construction activity fell again in October

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association) works with partner companies to deliver the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. We aim to keep our members updated with the latest news and developments from

HSE INVESTIGATION FINDS COMPANY IS TO BLAME IN WORKER FALL

SAEMA would like to thank Grant Prior at Construction Enquirer for allowing us to share the following story (first published at: https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2021/11/11/roofer-fractures-neck-in-six-metre-fall/). A fine has been issued to contractor Trevor Cook Construction Ltd, after a worker fell six metres through

HSE HEALTH AND WORK CONFERENCE 2021

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is hosting a free, interactive, full-day virtual conference on Health and Work on Thursday 16th November. HSE Health and Work Conference aims to inspire better prevention, management and control of the common risks and

Supporting physical and mental well-being in the changing workplace.

Organisations are increasingly recognising that OHS systems are no longer just about managing physical risk; they must also address the often hidden challenges that poor mental health and well-being present. To understand more about the impact the pandemic has had

FIVE NEW CARBON CHAMPIONS NAMED AT COP26

With COP26 well underway in Glasgow, SAEMA is pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). Five more companies have been chosen to lead UK construction’s drive to hit net zero. The five companies are the

CITB ROUNDTABLE EVENT

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is looking forward to attending a roundtable event @educationgovuk today to discuss some of the key skills challenges faced by industry, and how CITB can support them. CEO Tim Balcon is looking forward to

CONSTRUCT ZERO – THE CLC’S CARBON CHANGE PROGRAMME

With COP26 currently taking place in Glasgow, the world’s attention is turned towards how we can all help to combat climate change. SAEMA is pleased to share the following nine priorities from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), which builds on

SCAFFOLDING COMPANY MD RECEIVES SUSPENDED JAIL SENTENCE AND FINE FOR MAINTENANCE FAILINGS

BUDGET 2021: BUILDING A STRONGER ECONOMY

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, aims to share the latest news regarding site safety and other issues of importance and interest to our readers. Delivering the Budget and Spending

CLC FUTURE PROOFS COVID-19 CONTRACTS GUIDE

IOSH REPORTS ‘CONCERNING’ RISE IN WORKPLACE FATALITIES

The latest IOSH magazine for September/October 2021 (https://issuu.com/redactive/docs/linked_iosh_sepoct21_full_lr?fr=sMGY2OTM5MjM0NDQ) has a published a report urging employees to better manage health and safety risks after the GB Health & Safety Executive (HSE) released figures showing work-related accidents caused 142 fatalities in Great

NO FALLS FOUNDATION LAUNCHES SUPPORTER SCHEME

The Health & Safety Event at the NEC, which SAEMA attended with the Access Industry Forum in September, marked the launch of the No Falls Foundation’s official Supporter Scheme. Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum: The choice is yours! By choosing

CLC CALLS ON INDUSTRY TO REDOUBLE CARBON EFFORTS

Just as new CO2nstructZero Business Champions have been announced, Andy Mitchell, the co-chair of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has called on the construction industry to redouble its efforts in the fight against carbon. This comes after the CLC revealed

COMPANY FINED AFTER WORKER PARALYSED BY FALL AT WATFORD FOOTBALL STADIUM

POCKET GUIDE TO WORKING AT HEIGHT

The No Falls Foundation (NFF) has issued a new PocketCard to provide quick, simple and handy guidance for anyone working at height. Its four key height safety messages are Avoid, Prevent, Minimise and Ask: Avoid – always avoid working at

Dragon’s Den for Construction Industry

Earlier in September, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) announced a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style competition for young industry professionals, accelerating the drive to net zero. The competition has been extended and the closing date is midday on 8th October. The competition

Construction company fined after three contractors fell from height

Updated COVID-19 flowchart

Build UK, the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry, is continuing to update its COVID-19 flowchart to reflect the very latest government guidance. The latest version can be seen here: https://twitter.com/BuildUK/status/1439963810786336768/photo/1 There are no current plans for an

UK Construction Week 5-7 October

SAEMA, as provider of the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, is pleased to share the following. UK Construction Week – the UK’s largest construction event – is taking place from 5th to 7th

Monthly construction output fell by 1.6% in July

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has reported that monthly construction output fell by 1.6% in July 2021, with the level of output now below its pre-coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic February 2020 level. New work, and repair and maintenance contributed to the

CITB secures construction industry support for Levy Proposals

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA aims to keep right up to date with the latest news from around the construction industry. We are pleased to

HSE updates guidance on work-related road risk

BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE – FREE CONSTRUCT ZERO YOUTH EVENT

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT FELL BY 1.3% IN JUNE

CONSTRUCTION WELCOMES DELAY TO UKCA PRODUCT MARKING CHANGES

Company fined after several workers contracted occupational disease

NEW NEBOSH QUALIFICATION NOW ACCEPTED FOR ACADEMICALLY QUALIFIED PERSON APPLICATIONS

VACCINATION: KEY HR CONSIDERATIONS FOR EMPLOYERS

BUILD UK PARTNERSHIP AIMS TO OPEN DOORS

LADDER SAFETY TODAY: NEW GUIDANCE FOR EMPLOYERS

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA aims to keep right up to date with the latest safety guidance concerning all apparatus and equipment for working at

IPAF GLOBAL SAFETY REPORT

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA monitors the latest developments in the construction sector, particularly regarding worker health and safety, sustainability and equality. We are pleased

CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY HOLDS UP – JULY 2021

APPG REPORT: JULY 2021

NASC PUBLISHES 2021 SAFETY REPORT

PASMA REVAMPS TOWERS FOR USERS TRAINING COURSE

COVID-19 WORKER FLOWCHART ON WHEN TO SELF-ISOLATE

Impact of Covid-19 on work under NEC4 Contracts Guidance

COVID-19 and the construction sector

CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

LEXiCON Methodology Consultation

COVID-19 SITE OPERATING PROCEDURES ‘NO LONGER CURRENT’

Government confirms Roadmap will proceed on 19th July

Following final review of the data, the Prime Minister has confirmed that Step 4 of the Roadmap will proceed as planned on 19 July. On this date, most legal restrictions will end, removing social distancing and social contact restrictions and

HSE releases annual workplace fatality figures for 2020/21

UK manufacturing: a lack of carbon understanding is undermining progress to net zero

74% of C-suite executives have an incomplete understanding of their company’s carbon footprint A third of C-suite executives have yet to appoint a head of sustainability (35%) or implement a green sourcing strategy (34%) 69% of C-suite executives said they

Introduction of the Building Safety Bill

The Building Safety Bill was introduced to Parliament yesterday by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). The Building Safety Bill will implement recommendations made in Dame Judith Hackitt’s ‘Building a Safer Future’ report, which highlighted a need

Brexit and the UK Adequacy Decision

Applications for the EU Settlement Scheme close today (30 June)

There is a pack for employers containing a range of resources that can be shared with employees to help them apply, which is hosted by Build UK – the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry: https://builduk.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/EU-Settlement-Scheme-Employers-Guide.pdf The EU

Construction and flexible working

The effects of the pandemic have been far-reaching and it has prompted a lot of workplaces to look again at flexible working. SAEMA monitors the latest developments in the construction sector, particularly regarding worker health and safety, sustainability and equality.

Britain builds back: Construction will need 216,800 new workers by 2025 to meet demand

Commitment to achieving NetZero by 2050

CLC reminds businesses: Get Ready to Ensure Data Flows from the EU continue after 30 June 2021

Construction businesses are being encouraged by the CLC to ensure that they have adequate mitigation measures so that they may continue to transfer personal data between the EU and the UK after 30 June 2021 – whatever the case, the

NHS Trust fined following failures to manage environmental risks

COVID-19 has made workplace sustainability goals clearer

The coronavirus pandemic has made 2020 one of the most memorable years for all the wrong reasons – or nearly all. The death toll both in the west and in developing countries has been terrifying, with the elderly and those

Delay to Roadmap out of Lockdown

‘No jab, no job’

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT FELL 2.0% IN APRIL 2021

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has reported that construction output fell 2.0% in April 2021 following a particularly strong increase in March (5.8%): output now stands above its pre-pandemic February level. New work continues to be subdued but the level

CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY REMAINS STEADY – MAY 2021

Build UK, the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry, has released the latest information from the Builders’ Conference, which shows that the number of contracts awarded in May was above the monthly average for the last year, whilst

CLC UPDATE ON BUILDING SAFETY

The Construction Leadership Council has issued a four-point bulletin on building safety. 1: Residential Property Developer Tax – Consultation opens Earlier this year the Government announced that it would introduce a new Residential Property Developer Tax as part of its Building Safety

APPG REPORT

The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Working at Height was delighted to welcome Sarah Newton, chair of the HSE, and Dr Helen Bamforth, project director for the HSE’s Discovering Safety campaign, to its April meeting. This article was written

UK & US COLLABORATE TO IMPROVE THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been announced between representatives for the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States of America (U.S.) cementing a pledge to work together on the development of the US National Building Information Management (BIM) Program.

FALL FROM HEIGHT LEADS TO FINE

APPRENTICESHIP TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION FUNDING ‘TRAVEL TO TRAIN’

The CITB is the Industry Training Board for the construction industry and a partner in ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council. Its job is help the construction industry attract talent and to support skills development, to build a better Britain. We

LEARNING THE LESSONS FROM ACCIDENTS

We are pleased to share the following insight from Ray Cooke, Health and Safety Advisor for the No Falls Foundation. Ray spent 35 years with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and has a wealth of valuable experience to share

CONSTRUCTION PRODUCT AVAILABILITY CONCERNS

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is sharing this story, which is likely to have an impact to a certain degree on most companies in the construction sector and its supply chain. A statement from John Newcomb,

Women in construction offer perspective on markets in UK and Sweden

CONTRACTORS FINED AFTER WORKER INJURED BY DROPPED LOAD

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA is keen to share the following story about two construction companies that have been fined after a worker was seriously

COVID SPOT CHECKS AND INSPECTIONS ON BUSINESSES CONTINUE AS LOCKDOWN MEASURES EASE

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – has a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Through our commitment to advancing safety through the raising of standards and

ANNE-MARIE TREVELYAN MP’S KEYNOTE SPEECH AT UK CONSTRUCTION WEEK

Workers left without edge protection on fifth floor roof

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA is keen to share the following story from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). A Blackpool contractor has been fined

Help Inside the Hard Hat

The Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity is the only charity that provides emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to construction workers and their families – and has been doing so since 1956. The charity has launched its Help Inside the Hard

HSE reports of custodial sentence for failure to report incident

Construction on track to reach its green targets

A report by the Climate Change Committee has set out a host of ambitious carbon reduction targets and points to where resources should be focused. In a bid to boost Britain’s sustainability credentials ahead of the COP26 conference in November

The last year has presented some of the toughest challenges in a generation. The threat of COVID to our physical health and the toll on our mental health as a consequence of the adjustments we’ve all had to make have

CLC & HSE – IT’S TIME FOR US ALL TO TALK ABOUT WORK-RELATED STRESS

The Health & Safety Executive has joined forces with the Construction Leadership Council to encourage the whole industry to start a conversation about employee stress. The past 12 months have placed unprecedented strains on workers as companies have adopted new

The future of tall buildings in question

Skyscrapers and tall buildings are a fundamental part of the construction sector and their increasing presence in cities is a reliable indicator of the health of the industry and the economy as a whole. Therefore, with the COVID-19 pandemic changing

Surge in height safety breaches is cause for concern

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA is keen to circulate the story that the Building Safety Group (BSG) has reported an 84% increase in the number

CLC NEWS RELEASE REVEALS BACKING OF VALUE TOOLKIT

With a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry, SAEMA keeps up to date with the latest news within the construction industry – particularly regarding COVID, Brexit and sustainability. We

Double-digit growth forecast for this year but risks remain

CLC on decarbonising infrastructure: good progress but not fast enough

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has issued a press release and a ‘Carbon Review 7 Years On’ report. The Infrastructure Carbon Review was published in November 2013 with the call to action to ‘reduce carbon, reduce cost’. Seven years on,

HSE reports on fines for safety breaches

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a news item with details that the clients and principal contractor of a construction project have been sentenced following numerous serious health and safety failings. Basildon Crown Court heard how London and

HSE advises employers to review stress in the workplace

A statement from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has urged employers to review the stress-causing factors in their workplaces and the work that their employees do. Stress, depression or anxiety account for 51% of all work-related ill health cases

Construction regrowth continues with 1.6% increase

Construction, as with the majority of sectors, suffered a considerable decrease in activity since the advent of COVID-19 in March 2020. The adoption of stringent safety measures combined with sheer hard work throughout the industry saw an admirable recovery towards

TG20:21 scaffolding software now on sale

The updated and expanded scaffolding compliance software from the National Access & Scaffolding Federation (NASC) is now on sale. TG20:21 builds on TG20:13, the NASC’s innovative, user-friendly and widely-adopted eGuide software, which enables users to produce a wide range of

Construction Product Availability Statement

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – has read with interest the statement issued this week about the availability of construction products, from prominent figures within the construction industry. Statement from John Newcomb, CEO Builders Merchants Federation and

COLLABORATIVE REPORTING ON SAFER STRUCTURES

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this press release from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). Following the tragedy at Grenfell and subsequent government review of Building Regulations led by Dame Judith Hackitt, a

The Official HSE Health and Safety app for SMEs

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share news of the release of a bespoke mobile app from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The new app is designed to help organisations understand the law,

Taking the lead on net zero training

It has been widely reported in the construction press that businesses need to step up their eco training to avoid placing the UK’s net zero targets in jeopardy. Reports by the CITB and the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR)

Improved Pre-Qualification System Goes Live

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association) is pleased to share this press release from Build UK about how major contractors are now adopting the Common Assessment Standard. Build UK is the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry.

CLC’s MID-TERM STRATEGY

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has set out its mid-term strategy. It includes one-year and three-year plans against its priority themes, focused particularly on building safety and the race to net zero carbon. The CLC’s three priorities are: Industry recovery

Fire safety regulation breaches could lead to unlimited fines, according to new regulations

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this important story from the Safety and Health Practitioner. The Government has announced new regulations to boost building safety and £16 million for fire and rescue authorities.

CONSTRUCTION SECTOR BACKS CLC NATIONAL RETROFIT STRATEGY SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this ‘good news story’ from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). 50 organisations including representatives of the energy and water sectors

Landmark construction skills plan backed by industry and government

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association) is pleased to share this announcement from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), which has published the first sector-wide skills plan for construction, developed by industry. The Industry Skills Plan for the UK Construction Sector

GOVERNMENT BANKS ON INFRASTRUCTURE GROWTH

The government’s budget announcement confirmed plans for the setting up of a national infrastructure bank. While the establishment of a national infrastructure bank (NIB) is not necessarily news as it has been trailed for quite some time, it is expected

THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR’S RESPONSE TO THE PRIME MINISTER’S NET ZERO CHALLENGE

The following press release was issued by Andy Mitchell, Co-chair of the Construction Leadership Council. SAEMA is pleased to share this important message which affects everyone within the construction industry. The construction industry must come to terms with the impact

What Budget 2021 means for construction

Speaking in the House of Commons this afternoon chancellor Rishi Sunak made several announcements that are sure to impact construction. A summary is included below. COVID-19 job support Sunak confirmed the furlough scheme will be extended until the end of

Minister’s open letter reminds construction sector to follow COVID-19 guidance

Scotland’s housing minister has written an open letter to the construction industry to thank them for their hard work, and for complying with the lockdown restrictions. Nicola Sturgeon’s plan will see Scotland ease restrictions every three weeks until April 26

COVID update – news on roadmap

Many people will have seen the prime minister’s announcement on the roadmap for easing lockdown restrictions on 22nd February, but we’re pleased to share the following summary which has implications for everyone. The Prime Minister delivered a statement in the

With changes to BS EN 1004 taking full effect later this year, PASMA is urging all businesses using mobile access towers to use the transition period wisely. SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share

Tragic accident highlights vital important of safety systems

The following story of the tragic death of a roofer in Kirkdale, Liverpool, is particularly sad as it could so easily have been prevented through the use of a temporary safety system. Liverpool Crown Court heard how on 22nd May

Welcoming the Expansion of the Building Safety Fund

SAEMA exists to promote safer practice in working at height through the provision of the best training and guidance available. It is vital that buildings are safe and that their occupants feel safe. We welcome the announcement made recently by the

Study reveals significant confusion over COVID-19 liabilities

SAEMA endeavours to keep its members up to date with the latest developments in the construction industry, including those regarding COVID-19. Research from quantity surveying firm Turner & Townsend claims that one in three construction contracts are not fit to

NASC members to give 290+ young people a start in scaffolding

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share the following story, originally shown in the news section of the Access Industry Forum website. National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) members will provide more than 290

Charity publishes support pack for workers who fall from height At SAEMA our aim is to reduce and ultimately eliminate accidents that result from working at height. We co-operate with other organisations, specialist bodies and institutions involved in the provision and

Recovery continues for manufacturers despite increased concern over material and component supply

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share the following story on the continued recovery in construction sales. Data from the Construction Product Association (CPA) suggests construction product manufacturers reported a second quarterly increase in

SITE ACCIDENT HIGHLIGHTS CRUCIAL IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY MEASURES

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – as the national trade body for the permanent and temporary façade access equipment industry, is keen to share the following report of an accident that occurred on site due to lack

Act now on safety or face shutdown, says BESA

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering and Maintenance Association – is pleased to share the following content from Heating & Ventilation Review. SAEMA has a long history in delivering the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access

FASTER HOUSE-BUILDING BOOSTS UK CONSTRUCTION GROWTH IN DECEMBER

SAEMA – Suspended Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is keen to share the latest positive news from Builders Merchants Journal on the house building sector. While the UK is currently in the midst of the nation’s third lockdown, the

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY UPBEAT ABOUT EU TRADING DEAL

SAEMA exists to promote safety in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry through quality training and guidance. Monitoring the latest news that affect companies and individuals is something we do in our own news section. The construction sector is

CONSTRUCTION TO CONTINUE THROUGHOUT THIRD LOCKDOWN

Construction sites can stay open as and continue to operate during the latest lockdown. The prime minister’s announcement on 4th January 2020 informed the nation that there will be a lockdown until mid-February. It will be similar in nature to

The changing face of the office

There has been a 19% increase in demand for smaller flexible workspaces, driven by distributed working and employee demand to work closer to home, according to figures from IWG, operator of Regus. Once employees are no longer at significant risk

EU Exit Business Readiness: Final Checklist

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has published a final checklist for construction businesses ahead of the end of the transition period within the EU. This one page checklist summarises the key changes that UK construction businesses will face at the

Sixth carbon budget published by Climate on Committee Change

SAEMA (Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association) delivers the best training and guidance in the temporary and permanent suspended access industry. Our aim is to advance safety through raising the standards in best practice amongst at-height workers. Our part of

Brexit uncertainty frustrates Construction

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – has keenly followed developments both regarding the coronavirus pandemic and how it impacts the construction sector, as well as Brexit and how decisions from the negotiating table will affect construction now

ONS REPORTS RISE IN CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT

Construction output saw a monthly increase of 1% in October, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This is due to increases in both new workup (+0.3%) and repair and maintenance (+2.3%). The data shows that this is the

CONSTRUCTION PLAYBOOK LAUNCHED TO BRING TOGETHER BEST PRACTICE

Construction Leadership Council (CLC), in collaboration with the Cabinet Office and Infrastructure & Projects Authority, and with input from across the public sector, has developed and published the Construction Playbook. As the description on gov.uk says, the Construction Playbook captures

HSE releases 2019/20 UK accident statistics

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released the latest statistics (2019/20) relating to workplace accidents. The HSE is a UK government agency responsible for the encouragement, regulation and enforcement of workplace health, safety and welfare, and for research into occupational risks in Great Britain.

PLANS REVEALED FOR NEW AUTISM-FRIENDLY HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN GATESHEAD

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this news story from Bdaily, which demonstrates real progress in the way the construction industry is now directly catering for people with particular health requirements. A North

Do you need help assessing work at height risks

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – is pleased to share this blog from rams.or.uk (Risk Assessment Solutions Ltd.) Based in Stafford, West Midlands, Risk Assessment Solutions can help to identify potential problems and offer suitable solutions to

Business secretary says thank you to all construction workers

Business secretary Alok Sharma has written an open letter addressed “to everyone working in the construction sector” to express his gratitude for the work being done. “Thank you to everyone operating in the UK construction sector,” he writes. “You are

Safety warning regarding Skyclimber lightweight link units

SAEMA – Specialist Access Engineering & Maintenance Association – has become aware of a recent incident when a fault occurred with a temporary suspended access system. SAEMA received a report that a spigot of a Skyclimber lightweight stage had sheared under load. No

The latest advice on self-employment income support and self-isolation

Following the announcement of the new national restrictions in place from 5th November 2020 regarding COVID-19, Build UK has issued a flowchart showing what to do if a worker has contracted the virus or has to self-isolate. The flowchart can

Number of new homes registered this year so far ‘is down by 30%’

Much has been made of the downturn in new build after the start of the coronavirus pandemic in late March. There are very few industry sectors that haven’t been severely affected – travel and tourism and catering, for example, have

RIBA publishes results of COVID-19 student survey

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has published findings of its COVID-19 student survey, focusing on how architecture students have been affected by the pandemic. Architects are, of course, absolutely crucial in the construction supply chain, which is why

Promoting mental health in construction

The importance of sustaining the workforce, making sure there is a constant stream of upcoming skilled talent, is well-documented in the construction industry. It is pleasing to see that a growing number of organisations believe that hand in hand with

Cautious welcome for September’s construction boost

As we reach the latter stages of arguably the most turbulent year in living memory, construction industry leaders have cautiously welcomed the quickest rise in new business since lockdown. However, fears linger that construction is currently in the ‘calm before

Scotland publishes construction recovery plan

Scotland’s Construction Leadership Forum (CLF) has published a plan aimed at steering the sector’s recovery from the impact of Covid-19. The plan focuses on the joint action required between the industry and the public sector to respond to the pandemic.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) cracks down on dust

Health and safety inspectors across Great Britain will be targeting construction firms to check that their health standards are up to scratch during a month-long inspection initiative, starting on Monday 5 October 2020. This is the fourth health-focused initiative of

Government Announces £3bn Plan to Upgrade Buildings

Homeowners can sign up for big savings on upgrades to their homes under the government’s £2 billion Green Homes Grant, with an additional £1 billion announced to improve the energy efficiency of publicly owned buildings. The Green Homes Grant scheme

CLC: Industry must lead the way in take-up of NHS COVID-19 App

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has reported that industry leaders have urged businesses of all sizes in UK construction to lead the way in ensuring the widest possible uptake of the NHS COVID-19 app, which launched in England and Wales

Jenrick announces next steps to put beauty and design at heart of planning system

It was announced on Tuesday 22nd September that Nicholas Boys Smith has been appointed to establish a new design body, tasked with driving up design standards. He will lead an expert group advising the government on how to embed beauty

Construction furlough figures revealed

New data released by HMRC and reported in a number of publications has revealed that construction industry companies claiming through the government’s job retention scheme reached £3.2bn at the end of July. This puts construction firms behind only the retail,

2,000 residential buildings still awaiting safe cladding

The Grenfell disaster in 2017 was a tragedy that rightly prompted a greater emphasis on fire safety in buildings over a certain height. While there has been good progress in the public sector to replace dangerous cladding, many more “at

Draft Building Safety Bill Update

The Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM) is formulating its response to the draft Building Safety Bill, including a submission to the parliamentary pre-legislative inquiry on the Bill. SAEMA – Specialist Access and Engineering Maintenance Association – has observed this development with

Re-evaluating training and certification for the “new normal”

As the national trade body for the permanent and temporary façade access equipment industry, SAEMA – Specialist Access and Engineering Maintenance Association – is a keen observer of the latest developments and initiatives from the government post-COVID-19. The advent of

Government campaign to encourage a return to the office

The Transport Minister has told a London radio station that: “Our central message is pretty straightforward: we are saying to people it is now safe to return to work.” Grant Shapps, in an interview with LBC radio, revealed that the

Construction industry buoyed by third-quarter growth

The UK is reportedly on track for a record economic resurgence during the third quarter of the year, with the construction industry continuing to enjoy an impressive period of growth. City of London economists have predicted a 14.3% rise in GDP

Planning reforms to help government’s “build, build, build” campaign

SAEMA, as the national trade body for the permanent and temporary façade access equipment industry, has noted with interest the wholesale reform of the planning system in England announced by the Government. The planning system has been described as being

Help for apprentices – the lifeblood of the industry

The construction industry needs a constant flow of new skilled workers coming through in order to meet demand and be sustainable. Therefore, the following announcement from the government is very welcome. In addition to the funding of £1,000 already available

Green Homes Grants – green shoots of recovery?

The UK is now officially in a recession, with some speculating it could be the deepest for many years. The government’s commitment to “Build build build” offers some relief and hope for the construction and FM sectors and the Construction

Build, Build, Build

BUILD, BUILD, BUILD Following the publication of the National Infrastructure and Construction Procurement Pipeline 2020/21, the government appears to have made a solid commitment to ‘Build Build Build’. This is obviously welcome news for the construction industry and supply chain,

CLC issues three new guidance documents for construction companies

CLC issues three new guidance documents for construction companies The Construction Leadership council (CLC) has published three new guidance documents to help companies in the construction sector to manage the impact of COVID-19 on their business. The first of these,