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 sharing the following statement regarding the roadmap out of lockdown, with content from Construction Manager magazine and the Construction Leadership Council’s (CLC).
The CLC’s COVID-19 Site Operating Procedures and Branch Operating Procedures are no longer current now the remaining coronavirus legal restrictions have been lifted.
England has moved to the final stage of easing of coronavirus restrictions today (19th July), including the removal of the 1m-plus social distancing rule, the legal requirement to wear face masks, and capacity limits for all venues and events.
But the CLC said it would keep its guidance documents available “as a reference” and recommended that face coverings should still be worn in crowded and enclosed spaces when people mix with others they don’t normally meet.
The CLC said that COVID-19 will still need to be managed for “some time to come” and has updated its Use of Face Coverings in Construction guidance in line with the latest government guidance.
It said: “While it would be inappropriate for the CLC to seek to impose on the industry any requirements over and above those set out by the government, we recognise that businesses across the supply chain have welcomed the consistency that the CLC guidance has provided. They may choose, or be asked, to maintain elements of social distancing for the time being, in which case the Site Operating Procedures and Branch Operating Procedures should continue to be followed.”
The CLC added that its guidance may also assist in carrying out risk assessments as working arrangements are reviewed and revised, and advised that any changes to social distancing measures are discussed with the workforce.
It also urged construction businesses to retain enhanced welfare facilities, increased ventilation and improved communication with the workforce, all of which have been adopted by the industry over the past 18 months since the Site Operating Procedures and Branch Operating Procedures have been in place.