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Government construction group publishes site suspensions advice
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has drawn up guidance to help professionals safely close sites during the coronavirus outbreak.
The CLC said that although the government does not require all construction sites to close, it recognises “many sites are closing or will close temporarily” as construction workers try to adhere to social distancing measures.
“This guidance is intended to ensure that any shutdown is safe and allows the site to recommence operations promptly after the suspension is lifted,” it said.
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The CLC highlighted key areas that need to be addressed in any shut down:
- Commercial and legal issues – even during a shutdown site owners have a duty of care to visitors, even in the event of trespass. Companies therefore have an obligation to minimise safety risks.
- Suspension planning – owners should have a structured plan for shutdown, the detail of which should reflect the size and complexity of the site.
- Site safety – ensure the safety of scaffolding, part-built structures, cranes, excavations and power sources.
- Site security – conduct a perimeter check to make sure that the site is not possible to access.
- Contacts – ensure that multiple contacts are available for all significant organisations related to the site.
- Special consideration for environmental issues – for example, consider whether sites close to rivers are vulnerable to flooding.
- Guidance on hired equipment – look for an agreement with hire companies around extending equipment hire contracts.
Business secretary Alok Sharma wrote an open letter to the construction sector on Tuesday to thank workers in what he called “challenging times”.
He added: “I am in regular contact with industry leaders about the developing situation that faces the sector. And I am fully committed to continuing to engage through the coming days, weeks and beyond.”
