Latest News - Faset

Revdek Safety Decking Systems Ltd becomes FASET member

FASET is delighted to welcome Revdek Safety Decking Systems Ltd (Revdek) as its newest member. Revdek is a manufacturer of safety decking platforms. Consolidating 25 years of experience within its team, Revdek has developed a safety decking system that offers

“We agree to the need tougher ventilation rules” – BESA

The hard-hitting government commissioned report calling for buildings to be made more infection resilient through the imposition of higher ventilation standards has received wholehearted support from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). The report, which was requested by the government’s

CIEH asks HSE for better collaboration with local authorities

The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health has expressed disappointment about the lack of engagement from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) around its new 10-year strategy. The Strategy sets out HSE’s strategic direction for the next decade, citing that protecting people

RoSPA Order of Distinction (20 consecutive Golds) Award for Mears Group PLC

An internationally-recognised award for demonstrating high health and safety standards has given Mears Group cause for great celebration. Mears has received a RoSPA Order of Distinction (20 consecutive Golds) Health and Safety Award for working hard to ensure our colleagues

New report from ukactive shows radical rethink required to boost health and productivity across UK workforce

ukactive has called for a radical rethink of health incentivisation in the workplace, including expanding the Cycle to Work scheme to cover gym memberships and equipment as more people work from home, in a new report published today (8 June).

Higher-Risk Building Regulations – consultation launched

The Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has published a consultation on the Higher-Risk Building (Descriptions and Supplementary Provisions) Regulations. This consultation is the first in a series of consultations on regulations which sit under the Building Safety Act

Two men sentenced after worker suffers fatal injuries after falling through fragile roof

As the established trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET exists to protect the health and safety of those working at height in the construction and FM sectors. We take a keen

Technology combined with behavioural science reduces energy consumption by 20%

An Environment Audit Committee (EAC) report has called for whole-life carbon assessments for larger buildings – something which Cloud Facilities Management wholeheartedly welcomes. The report, ‘Building to net zero: costing carbon in construction’, published by MPs, criticises the government for

Andy Access campaign from IPAF

Environmental Audit Committee report welcomed by UKGBC

The UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) has welcomed the Environmental Audit Committee’s new report ‘Sustainability of the Built Environment’, which calls on the Government to stop “dragging its feet” and regulate the building industry to reduce carbon emissions from the

Construction Leadership Council Acts to Ease Impact of Construction Inflation

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

ROSPA award win Compass

Scheme launched by London Mayor to get pupils interested in infrastructure jobs

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, has launched a primary school outreach programme that will showcase potential career paths in the infrastructure and construction sectors to pupils across London. In partnership with the London Infrastructure Group (LIG) and the Mayor’s Workforce

Government reveals ambitious plans for fire reform

The government has set out its most comprehensive plans for fire reform in decades in its Fire Reform White Paper, which will help strengthen the emergency services and seek to ensure people feel safer in their homes. Today (18 May),

IRC, S.A. becomes FASET member

FASET is pleased to welcome IRC, S.A. as its newest member. Headquartered in Alicante, Spain, the company is a manufacturer of nets for use in a variety of industries including construction safety nets. IRC’s are manufactured to meet the European Standard EN-1263-1.

ASFP expands range of guidance documents

The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has released three new and three updated documents. The new Advisory Notes 27, 28 and 29 offer advice on particular issues of concern to the industry. Advisory Note 27 provides advice on the structural ﬁre

Safety, Health and Wellbeing Live

As the established trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, we are pleased to share information about Safety, Health & Wellbeing Live in Manchester. Safety, Health and Wellbeing Live’s Manchester event is taking place

“Healthy building strategies need to be a priority post pandemic” – Sodexo

During the last two years personal health and wellbeing has become an increasingly important topic. This is of course in the context of a global pandemic and a shift in the way many of us work. The primary concern has

The CSCS Smart Check is already raising standards

The CSCS Smart Check app, which was launched in April, is already improving site safety and card checking procedures on UK construction sites. Developed by the 38 schemes displaying the CSCS logo, CSCS Smart Check allows those responsible for checking cards to

Construction Product Availability Statement

At FASET, we aim to keep up to date with all the latest news that is relevant to our industry, and we are pleased to share the following statement from John Newcomb, CEO of the Builders Merchants Federation and Peter

LondonEnergy receives RoSPA Gold Award

At FASET, we aim to keep up to date with all the latest news that is relevant to our industry. We are pleased to share the following good news story about health and safety excellence. LondonEnergy has been awarded the

Accelerating industry action on commercial retrofit – guide from UKGBC

The issue of retrofitting the UK’s poorly performing commercial buildings has been addressed with the publication of a guide from the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) designed to support industry. From 2025, every commercial building in the UK will require

Building Safety Act already having a big impact on the industry

The Building Safety Act, which was given royal assent, is already changing the industry, according to the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). The secondary legislation needed to turn the main proposals of the Act into specific legal measures are already

FASET, the AIF and the Home Builders Federation Collaborate on Height Safety Guidance

As a further initiative towards World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2022, FASET has worked closely with the Home Builders Federation and the Access Industry Forum (AIF) to produce a series of digital toolbox talks and guidance documents

World Day for Safety and Health at Work

Today, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) marks its World Day for Safety and Health at Work. As the established trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET is pleased to observe this day.

Asbestos toxic legacy must be tackled – British Safety Council chairman

Peter McGettrick, Chairman of British Safety Council, made the following comment on a report by the Work and Pensions Select Committee, calling for asbestos to be removed from all public and commercial buildings within 40 years: “Just because asbestos use

World Day for Safety and Health at Work – the approach of FASET and our members

On 28th April, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) marks its World Day for Safety and Health at Work. As the established trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET is pleased to observe

World Day for Safety and Health at Work – 28th April

World Day for Safety and Health at Work – 28th April As the established trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET is delighted to observe that on 28th April, the International Labour

CLC’s Construction Product Availability Statement

At FASET, we aim to keep up to date with all the latest news that is relevant to our industry. We are pleased to share the following statement from John Newcomb, CEO of the Builders Merchants Federation and Peter Caplehorn,

Introducing Infinity’s environmentally friendly fleet

Norse employees working for Infinity may now be undertaking their vital property compliance and maintenance work from new, much more environmentally friendly vans. Dean Kendall, Head of Infinity, said the 22 new Ford Transit Custom vans all met the latest

UK Government’s Net Zero Innovation Portfolio receives pioneering acceleration support from Mott MacDonald

Mott MacDonald has been appointed by the UK Government’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to provide acceleration support for up to 200 small and medium-sized enterprises as part of the UK’s £1bn Net Zero Innovation Portfolio. The

Amendments to PPE at work regulations – now in effect

The amended PPE regulations came into effect last week. This article from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) explains the scope of the changes. Amended regulations On 6 April 2022 the Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022 (PPER 2022) came

Unique partnership launched to tackle biodiversity challenges in urban environments

Canary Wharf Group (“CWG”), the UK’s largest sustainable developer, has announced the first partnership of its kind with the Eden Project (“Eden”), to create a model of how biodiversity can thrive in urban environments. The unique and ground-breaking partnership will

ISS wins nine Gold RoSPA Awards for health and safety achievements

As the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET is pleased to bring you this story about ISS’s success in winning nine Gold RoSPA Awards. Four ISS contracts and five ISS operating

IPAF SUMMIT 2022 DESCRIBES THE ‘EVOLUTION OF SAFETY’

Around 350 attendees at the 2022 Summit of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), at the Millennium Gloucester Hotel, Kensington, London, on 10 March 2022, heard presentations on the theme of “The Evolution of Safety”. The IPAF Summit 2022 marked

Bellrock awarded second consecutive RoSPA Gold Award

Congratulations to Bellrock Property & Facilities Management, who have been awarded the RoSPA Gold Award for Health and Safety Achievements for a second year running for 2022. RoSPA Health and Safety Awards are the most sought-after accolade by organisations from every

Site Operating Procedures and the Use of Face Coverings in Construction

We are pleased to keep up to date with the latest site operating procedures for construction, issued by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) in line with COVID recommendations. As per the Government’s Living with COVID-19 plan, the Working Safely During Coronavirus guidance,

The Latest Construction Product Availability Statement

BSI Identify – Update on Product Traceability

BSI Identify – the only registration agency authorised to provide construction product IDs – is using a unique digital identification service that uses Digital Object Identifier (DOI) technology to provide manufacturers with a single place to add and maintain their

EMCOR UK Awarded International Safety Award

EMCOR UK has won an International Safety Award from the British Safety Council in recognition of its commitment to keeping its workers and workplaces healthy and safe. EMCOR UK is one of only 135 organisations globally to be awarded a

CLC Taskforce Marks Second Anniversary

The Construction Leadership Council’s taskforce continues to unite the industry to face emerging challenges and opportunities for industry transformation as it reached its second birthday today (23 March 2022). The Taskforce, which brings together representatives from organisations across construction, was

Personal protective equipment (PPE) at work regulations from 6 April 2022

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has a page on its website explaining changes to the scope of the PPE Regulations which apply from 6 April 2022: https://www.hse.gov.uk/ppe/ppe-regulations-2022.htm Amended regulations On 6 April 2022 the Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment)

British Council for Offices calls on businesses to include active commuting in ESG policies to combat carbon emissions

Putting active commuting at the heart of ESG policies can shift commuters towards more sustainable forms of travel, improve individual health and wellbeing and help companies cut carbon emissions, new research from the British Council for Offices (BCO) has found.

BESA calls for compromise in safety insurance row

Contractors and insurers must work together to ensure the rising cost of professional indemnity insurance does not undermine efforts to improve building safety, according to the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA). The Association fears that the growing controversy around proposed

Monthly Construction Output Increased by 1.1% in January 2022

We are pleased to share the following good news story from the Construction Leadership council (CLC). Headline figures for January 2022: Monthly construction output increased by 1.1% in volume terms in January 2022 and is now at its highest level

Construction Product Availability Statement

We are pleased to share the following statement 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. A mild winter has

A third of businesses plan to scrap self-isolation for workers

New research suggests that many British employers won’t require staff who test positive for Covid-19 to self-isolate at home once any remaining legal restrictions are lifted. A poll of 250 business owners, CEOs and senior managers, by HR software provider CIPHR,

Slips, trips and falls – behaviour and culture

As the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET aims to keep right up to date with the latest news from around the construction industry. We are pleased to share the following

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 partnership between FASET and

Transforming Construction Challenge Set to Revolutionise the Industry

For the past four years, the Transforming Construction Challenge (TCC) has brought industry and government together to pilot and test a range of innovations that will revolutionise the construction industry. New approaches include platform systems, manufacturing methods, robotic technology, digital

Company fined after electrician died following fall from crane platform

CLC looks for new co-chair

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is looking for a new co-chair as Andy Mitchell is stepping down. Andy will leave the post in Spring. Accordingly, the CLC has put up a job application for his replacement, and an accompanying description.

THE NO FALLS FOUNDATION SUPPORTER SCHEME

FASET 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

£300m boost for climate-friendly heating in Scotland

Homes and commercial properties across Scotland will benefit from the establishment of a new £300 million fund supporting the development and roll out of zero emission heat networks. Zero Carbon Buildings Minister Patrick Harvie announced the new Heat Network Fund

Mayor consults Londoners on new guidance to improve fire safety

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan is spearheading vital fire safety improvements in the capital, launching a full public consultation on innovative draft guidance to ensure all new developments are designed with the highest standards of fire safety from the earliest

Gove to protect leaseholders with new laws

New measures have been unveiled by Secretary of State for Levelling Up Michael Gove that will force industry to pay to remove cladding and protect leaseholders from exorbitant costs. For those in industry not doing the right thing, the government

NEBOSH and the Health and Safety Executive join forces to tackle one of the main causes of musculoskeletal disorders

NEBOSH and Great Britain’s health and safety regulator, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), have partnered to develop a new qualification aimed at preventing one of the main causes of musculoskeletal disorders; manual handling. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) accounted for 8.9million

DHF launches new Technical Specifications

AIF launches Access Platform Decking Systems Toolbox Talks with HBF

Following the success of the ladder and stepladder safety toolbox talks released last year, a series of new toolbox talks focusing on the safe use of access platform decking systems have been released. The new resources, created by the Access

SHE technician apprenticeship uptake increases by 50%

CLC sets out its plans for construction in 2022

The Use of Face Coverings in Construction during Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Safety cases for high-rise buildings: a summary

MOBILE TOWER FALL DEATH: BACKGROUND TO A TRAGEDY

The following news story, published on the IOSH website, is a stark reminder of the great dangers of working at height and the vital importance of taking the proper approach to safety when using access equipment such as mobile towers.

CSCS Smart Check app | January 2022 update

The CSCS Smart Check app has been developed by the 38 card schemes displaying the CSCS logo, of which the FASET CSCS card is one. The app is set to radically improve the construction industry’s card checking procedures and site safety.

APPRENTICE INCENTIVE SCHEME

Businesses hiring an apprentice before 31 January can claim a £3,000 incentive payment as part of the Government’s expanded Plan for Jobs. To receive the payment, employers must submit applications individually using their apprenticeship service account: https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/employers/create-apprenticeship-service-account By creating an

Construction company and director sentenced for multiple safety failings

An Irvine-based construction company and its director have been sentenced after multiple health and safety failings, giving rise to significant risk, were found on a house build site in Irvine. Kilmarnock Sheriff Court heard how three inspections by the Health

England returns to Plan A following the success of the booster programme

Yesterday the Prime Minister confirmed ‘Plan B’ restrictions in England will end next Wednesday 26 January. People will no longer be advised to work from home, face coverings will no longer be mandatory in indoor venues, and organisations will be

Construction worker dies after falling from tower

The following news story, published on the HSE website, is a stark reminder of the great dangers of working at height and the vital importance of taking the proper approach to safety when using access equipment. A construction company has

Building materials and components: monthly statistics

We are pleased to share the following release from the department for business, energy and industrial strategy’s (BEIS), which presents the latest detailed information on selected building materials and contains monthly data on price indices, bricks, cement and concrete blocks.

South Yorkshire businesses targeted for health and safety inspection

We are pleased to share the following story from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Britain’s workplace regulator is set to clamp down on businesses in Sheffield and Rotherham after a sharp increase in the number of serious and fatal

Housing secretary tells developers to remove unsafe cladding from lower-height buildings

FASET 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

New Covid flowchart for industry

The Omicrom variant of Covid has seen over 200,000 new cases of the virus on a daily basis in the UK. While the prime minister is being cautious about bringing in new measures, we at FASET are pleased to share

Aim to create a ‘Gold Standard’ in public sector construction frameworks.

FASET is pleased to share the following post from Build UK for the interest of our members and website visitors. The Cabinet Office UK has published an independent review by Professor Mosey which seeks to create a new ‘Gold Standard’

Demolition work must be properly planned and managed to prevent serious injury

Great Britain’s workplace regulator is asking demolition and construction firms to double-down on thorough planning, management and control of demolition and refurbishment work. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is asking that businesses properly plan, organise, manage, and monitor their

Construction Product Availability Statement

We are pleased to share the following story from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), whose mission is to provide sector leadership to the construction industry. Statement from John Newcomb, CEO of the Builders Merchants Federation and Peter Caplehorn, CEO of

FASET AGM raises over £1,000 for charities

The FASET AGM took place on 25th November 2021 at a hugely enjoyable event which also included the FASET Annual Awards. The event, at the stunning Tewkesbury Park in the Cotswolds, gathered charitable donations for two wonderful charities: Mates in

HSE publishes annual work-related ill-health, injury and enforcement statistics for 2020/21

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

CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT RECORDS LARGEST MONTHLY DECLINE SINCE APRIL 2020

The Office for National Statistics has published an estimate of construction output for October 2021: Construction output fell 1.8% in volume terms in October 2021, this is the largest monthly decline since April 2020 when output fell by 41.7%; new

HSE ISSUES GUIDANCE FOR MANAGING HOME WORKERS

We are pleased to share the following short story, first published by the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). Great Britain’s safety regulator, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), has released new guidance on managing home workers’ health and

Ladder Association embarks on Surveillance Survey to root out dangerous ladders!

We are pleased to share the following story from The Ladder Association, which is allied to our aim of reducing and eventually eliminating falls from height. The Ladder Association, in partnership with Trading Standards departments across the East of England,

Government Kickstart Scheme – funding deadline approaching

Businesses have until Friday 17 December to apply for funding through the Kickstart Scheme. The scheme is running until March 2022 to provide funding to create new jobs for 16 to 24 year olds on Universal Credit who are at

HSE Chair Sarah Newton on mental health and the Working Minds campaign

Construction Product Availability Statement

APPG report: October 2021

As the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET keeps up with the latest news and developments relating to construction and working at height. We would like to share the following article,

Trailer manufacturing company fined after worker fell from height

FASET 2021 Award Winners Announced at Long-Awaited AGM

The FASET Annual Awards 2021 were unveiled at the trade body’s successful and hugely enjoyable AGM and social event on Thursday 25th November. Once again the event took place at the outstanding Tewkesbury Park in the Cotswolds – following the

Director sentenced for failing to comply with HSE enforcement notices

FASET is pleased to share the following from one of its valued member organisations , the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF). IPAF’s #MEWPs for Managers eLearning course is aimed at those who plan, supervise or manage work at height with Mobile Elevating

ATLAS Takes You on a Journey Through 75 Years of History

FASET is pleased to share the following story which was originally published on the website of one of our partners, the Access and Industry Forum (https://accessindustryforum.org.uk/). 2021 marks the 75th year of the Association of Technical Lightning & Access Specialists

HSE Digital MAC, ART and RAPP Tools

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE)’s digital MAC, ART and RAPP tools are available for employers, safety representatives and assessors to use now. The HSE has released digital versions of the Manual Handling Assessment Charts (MAC), Assessment of Repetitive Tasks

Scaffold Inspection Course dates during autumn and winter

Thursday is Built Environment Day at COP26.

Three Reasons To Book An SMSTS Or SSSTS Training Course

As the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET is pleased to share the following release from the website of the CHSG (Construction Health & Safety Group) Whether you’re just about to

£40K FINE IN CASE OF WAREHOUSE OPERATIVE’S 5M LADDER FALL

Carbon Reduction Code for the Built Environment Launched

The sign-up process for the Carbon Reduction Code for the Built Environment has been launched along with publication of Issue 2021:2 of the Code. Issue 2021:2 reflects industry feedback following the launch of the Code in June. The Code webpages

Construction leads on adopting a SOS Hand Signal for victims of modern slavery

Construction Product Availability Statement

Red diesel: FAQ

Company fined after employee sustains serious injuries in fall from height

Announcement – GSA Assessments

Since the start of the FASET Training and Assessment scheme back in the early 2000s, the cost of the certification of GSA Assessments undertaken every five years when obtaining or renewing qualifications has remained unchanged at £30. The costs of

ONS reports construction output falls 0.2%

A fall of 0.2% in construction output to £14.2bn in August 2021 can be explained by a combination of supply chain blockages, product shortages and price rises, according to the latest data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Balfour Beatty Launches Roadmap towards a Zero Carbon Construction Site

TG20:13 Support to be Withdrawn

The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has released a statement informing users of TG20:13 that technical support for this scaffolding software will be withdrawn by NASC from Tuesday 12th October 2021, six months after its launch. From this day

Sole trader who repaired agricultural and industrial sheds fined after worker injured

IPAF OFFERS NEW MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY FOR SAFETY PROFESSIONALS

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has launched a new type of membership, the Safety Professional member category, aimed at those in health & safety or related supervisory roles within powered access or wider end-use sectors. The new membership category

Safety in Construction Show

Now in its third year, the Safety in Construction Show features a highly regarded seminar programme and broad range of solutions from the best suppliers in the construction safety and wellbeing field. The event is being hosted at Holywell Park

Free webinar: data solutions to solve health and safety challenges

On 19 October at 10.30, at a free webinar, a panel of HSE experts and collaborators will present how the HSE aims to use data and analytical techniques to provide new insights and approaches to help reduce injuries and fatalities from

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Ends This Week

As Tweeted by Build UK, the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme ends this week, after 18 months. Claims for September must be made by 11:59pm on 14th October, with any amendments submitted

Construction Product Availability: 22 September 2021

FASET, as the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, occupies a vital part in the supply chain for construction workers who work at height. We take a keen interest in the latest

CCS welcomes launch of Code for Construction Product Information to raise standards

The 2021 National Infrastructure and Construction Pipeline

The 2021 National Infrastructure and Construction Pipeline sets out nearly £650 billion of public and private investment that the UK government states will transform people’s lives for decades to come. Across the UK, world-class infrastructure will act as the foundation

FASET attends the Health and Safety Event at the NEC

From Tuesday 7th to Thursday 9th September, FASET 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). FASET

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

HSE updates guidance on work-related road risk

FASET IS AT THE HEALTH AND SAFETY EVENT 2021

Today, FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) 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 Forum

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

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

FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) 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 the

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

As the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET aims to keep right up to date with the latest safety guidance concerning all apparatus and equipment for working at height. We are

ONESTOP SAFETY SOLUTIONS LTD BECOMES FASET MEMBER

FASET is pleased to welcome Onestop Safety Solutions Ltd as its newest member. Headquartered in Glasgow and part of the Onestop Group of companies, Onestop Safety Solutions design, manufacture and install bespoke work at height safety solutions and provide bespoke

IPAF GLOBAL SAFETY REPORT

As the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET monitors the latest developments in the construction sector, particularly regarding worker health and safety, sustainability and equality. We are pleased to share the

Construction activity holds up – July 2021

KR SERVICES & SOLUTIONS LTD BECOMES FASET MEMBER

FASET is pleased to welcome KR Services & Solutions Ltd as its newest member. Headquartered in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, the company offers project management solutions for customers’ projects as well as supplying plant hire – with or without an operator –

NASC PUBLISHES 2021 SAFETY REPORT

PASMA revamps Towers for Users training course

FASET CSCS cards – FREE transfers end tomorrow

The FASET CSCS card was launched on 1st February 2021 to all construction operatives who use temporary safety systems. For the last six months, everyone who works at height and uses equipment such as safety netting, edge protection., stair towers

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

Construction output falls 0.8% in May

HSE releases annual workplace fatality figures for 2020/21

“Significant gap” in carbon understanding threatens net zero aspirations

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. FASET 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

Delay to Roadmap out of Lockdown

As the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET monitors the latest developments in the construction sector, particularly regarding worker health and safety (and COVID), sustainability and equality. Earlier this week the

‘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

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

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – 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, CEO

Women in construction offer perspective on markets in UK and Sweden

CONTRACTORS FINED AFTER WORKER INJURED BY DROPPED LOAD

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – is the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry. We obsess on the safety of everyone in the construction and FM sectors and are keen

COVID spot checks and inspections on businesses continue as lockdown measures ease

Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP’s Keynote Speech at UK Construction Week

Workers left without edge protection on fifth floor roof

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

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – is the established trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry. As well as offering expert quality guidance and training to our members, we closely monitor

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

HSE publishes Annual Science Review: ‘COVID-19: Collaboration in a time of crisis’

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

Announcing another new FASET member – welcome to LDS Hire & Sales Ltd

FASET is pleased to welcome LDS Hire & Sales Ltd. as its newest member. LDS Hire & Sales Ltd. was established in 2006, when its specialists designed, developed and manufactured its first metal system. Since then the company has gone

National Decking Services Ltd .becomes FASET member

FASET is pleased to welcome National Decking Services Ltd. as its newest member. National Decking Services Ltd. specialises in metal decking and safety netting throughout the UK. All the company’s site teams are fully trained in all aspects of metal

Surge in height safety breaches is cause for concern

As the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET is keen to circulate that the Building Safety Group (BSG) has reported an 84% increase in the number of ‘working at height’ breaches

Revnet Safety Systems becomes FASET member

FASET is pleased to welcome Revnet Safety Systems as its newest member. Revnet Safety Systems, based in Howden in East Yorkshire, has a combined experience of over 50 years in the construction and civil engineering industry. Its mission is to

CLC news release reveals backing of value toolkit

As the trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, FASET keeps up to date with the latest news within the construction industry – particularly regarding COVID, Brexit and sustainability. We are pleased to

Double-digit growth forecast for this year but risks remain

MEWP accident highlights critical importance of training

It has been reported that a demolition has been fined £200,000 after the operator of a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) – or cherry picker – became trapped between the platform rail and the roof of an industrial shed. FASET

FASET and SAEMA Manager Tony Seddon on becoming PASMA trained

An interview with Tony Seddon, Managing Director of FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) 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 point

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, has 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

Safety net rescue – important change to FASET guidance

Following a request from a client to practice safety net rescues on their site using “live” nets, we have made a slight change to FASET Bulletin SN29 (Revision 2) Safety Net Rescue: DOWNLOAD. This change makes it clear that whilst FASET

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

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – 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 Peter

Collaborative Reporting on Safer Structures

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – 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 recommendation

The Official HSE Health and Safety app for SMEs

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – 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, their

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

FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) 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. Bringing

Introducing a new and easy way to check you are using a FASET Member

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – has introduced a Member Search Facility to allow principal contractors and other clients to quickly and easily check whether or not a company is a FASET member. Ensuring that the company you

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

Construction injury highlights importance of using certified systems

A recent accident has resulted in two construction companies being fined a total of £46,000 after a bricklayer was injured due to the failure of a working platform. The accident is extremely regrettable and FASET, as the established trade association

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

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – 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. Unlimited

CONSTRUCTION SECTOR BACKS CLC NATIONAL RETROFIT STRATEGY

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Testing – is pleased to share this ‘good news story’ from the Construction Leadership Council (CLC). 50 organisations including representatives of the energy and water sectors are backing the CLC National Retrofit Strategy which

Temporary CSCS Cards Implemented for Lightning Conductor Engineers and Steeplejacks

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – is pleased to share the following news story from the Access Industry Forum (AIF) on the implementation of temporary CSCS cards for lightning conductor engineers and steeplejacks. The Association of Technical Lightning

Scaffolding eGuide to launch

FASET is pleased to report that the NASC’s eagerly-anticipated eGuide scaffolding compliance software update and expansion – TG20:21 – is due to go on sale from this month The NASC is the national trade body for access and scaffolding in

Landmark construction skills plan backed by industry and government

FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) 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 2021-25 sets

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. FASET 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

100th FASET CSCS card issued

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – is proud to announce it has just issued its 100th FASET CSCS card. The new FASET CSCS card was launched on 1st February 2021. As a result of a collaboration between FASET

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

PASMA releases free guidance on new scaffold tower standard

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. FASET – as the established trade association and training body for the safety

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

FASET exists to support the construction industry via expert quality guidance, dedicated working at height training and exclusive membership benefit schemes all with the intention of promoting a safer way of working. It is vital that buildings are safe and

Study reveals significant confusion over COVID-19 liabilities

FASET 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

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – 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 young

Global BIM Summit – 17 March 2021

Building on a foundation of successful collaborations between governments, and regional public sector communities, the Centre for Digital Built Britain (Cdbb) is taking the next step together to form a Global BIM Network for the public sector. To launch the

Charity publishes support pack for workers who fall from height

At FASET 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 maintenance of façade access systems and equipment. They include Build

FASET welcomes two new members

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – is delighted to welcome two new member organisations. JMAC Safety Systems Ltd (https://www.jmacsafetysystems.co.uk/) specialises in platform decking, while Spectra Asset Integrity Management Ltd (https://www.spectrainspection.com/) is a specialist provider of safety netting. Like

FASET CSCS Card – Now Live

FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) has teamed up with CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme), the leading card scheme for the UK construction industry. This means FASET now issues cards which display the CSCS logo, for the safety netting and

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

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – 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 sales

FASET welcomes new member i.Scaff

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – is delighted to welcome a new member organisation – i.Scaff. i.Scaff provides scaffolding, safety netting and access solutions in Wantage, Oxfordshire. With the strapline “Big enough to cope, small enough to care,”

FASET-CSCS Partnership Offers Benefits for At-Height Workers

SITE ACCIDENT HIGHLIGHTS CRUCIAL IMPORTANCE OF SAFETY MEASURES

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – as the established trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry, is keen to share the following report of an accident that occurred on site due

Act now on safety or face shutdown, says BESA

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – is pleased to share the following content from Heating & Ventilation Review. FASET is the established trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry. FASET has

Letter issued to the construction industry regarding lockdown

Andy Mitchell CBE, Chief Executive Officer of Tideway and Council Co-Chair of the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), has written to the construction industry regarding the recent lockdown. Mr Mtchell’s letter referenced the letter sent by the Right Honourable Kwasi Kwarteng

FASTER HOUSE-BUILDING BOOSTS UK CONSTRUCTION GROWTH IN DECEMBER

FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training), as the established trade association and training body for this industry sector, is keen to share the latest positive news from Builders Merchants Journal on the house building sector. While the UK is currently

Construction industry upbeat about EU trading deal

FASET exists to promote safe working at height in the construction 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 getting

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

Trade Credit Insurance Reinsurance Scheme extended and guidance updated

The Construction Leadership Council guidance on trade credit insurance during COVID-19 has been updated to reflect the latest reinsurance scheme information. The Scheme has been extended by 6 months to 30 June 2021 and approved under relevant state aid rules.

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

The importance of safety nets when working at height

In the construction industry, employers have a duty to ensure their teams are safe on site and that safety measures are ALWAYS in place before undertaking work at height. FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – is the established

Sixth carbon budget published by Climate on Committee Change

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – is the established trade association and training body for the safety netting and temporary safety systems industry. FASET has long been a foundation in supporting its members with expert quality guidance, dedicated

Brexit uncertainty frustrates Construction

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training – has keenly followed developments regarding both 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 and

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

Construction sector grows at fastest rate for six years

FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) exists to promote safety and best practice within the at-height sector for operatives using safety netting, stair towers and other safety equipment. It is vital to the construction supply chain, which is why we

NFB’s Decarbonisation Initiative

The National Federation of Builders’ (NFB) Major Contractors Group (MCG) is arming the construction industry with practical tools for main contractors to start or accelerate their journey towards achieving net zero carbon with a new decarbonisation handbook. Launched by Mark

A life shattered by a fall from height

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Testing – exists to offer a foundation of support for its members with expert guidance, dedicated working at height training and exclusive membership benefit schemes for all, with the intention of promoting a safer

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.

Announcements provide indication on zero carbon effect on FM

This week has seen a number of government announcements confirming its commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Included within these have been its 10-point plan, confirming investment and the main areas of concentration, providing more clarity and

Plans revealed for new autism-friendly housing development in Gateshead

FASET – Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Testing – is delighted 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 East

ACE resource on coronavirus

The Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) has produced an online resource to ensure its members stay up to date with the latest information regarding the coronavirus. ACE champions infrastructure to government and other stakeholders, representing the views of around

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

FASET delivers first industry webinar on platform decking

On 4th November, Tony Seddon, Managing Director of FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) delivered a webinar to give industry practitioners a comprehensive overview of platform decking, including the benefits, the do’s and don’ts and introduce FASET’s supply partners of

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

LONDON BOROUGHS SEEK SUPPORT FOR GREEN RETROFIT WORK

London boroughs have identified 375 shovel-ready projects, representing a £1.35bn pipeline of work – including the retrofitting of 18 large public buildings, 29 schools and thousands of homes across the capital. The councils have found £950m for the work but

CONSTRUCTION AIMS TO MAKE WORKING CONDITIONS AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE DURING SECOND LOCKDOWN

Feedback on how to keep construction sites going safely on the eve of England’s second national lockdown on Thursday is being called for by the Construction Leadership Council, CLC. In a public letter, it flagged up its guidance on safe operation

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

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

More women building careers in construction during COVID-19

Women looking for work during the coronavirus pandemic have told how a training programme has helped them secure new careers in the construction industry. Fifteen women have been trained by Capital City College Training (CCCT) and have been undertaking work

Job applications in the construction sector grow by 44.5% in Q3 as end of Job Retention Scheme looms

According to the latest quarterly job market report from CV-Library, job applications in the construction sector grew by 44.5% in Q3 2020 and by 21.2% year-on-year. The report looks at job market data throughout Q3 2020 and compares this with findings from the previous

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

No Falls Foundation appoints its first Health and Safety Advisor

Following his retirement from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) at the end of September, Ray Cooke has kindly agreed to lend his invaluable and extensive experience to the No Falls Foundation, serving as its Health and Safety Advisor. The

Construction workers’ wages hit hardest during pandemic

Figures just released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) show that the wages of construction workers have fallen more than in any other sector of the economy. The coronavirus has devastated economic output throughout the world, with many sectors

UK concrete and cement sector sets out net zero roadmap

The UK concrete and cement industry has launched a roadmap to become net negative by 2050, removing more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than it emits each year. UK Concrete, part of the Mineral Products Association (MPA), has identified that

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

New talent retention scheme for construction industry

The Construction Leadership Council has launched the Talent Retention Scheme (CLC TRS) to keep essential talent within the UK Construction industry. Sustainability of skilled personnel is one of the biggest issues facing the construction industry, and one which FASET is

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. FASET, Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training, has observed this development with interest. FASET has

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

FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) has long been a foundation in supporting its members with expert quality guidance, dedicated training and exclusive membership benefit schemes all with the intention of promoting a safer way of working. We strive to

FASET retains SSiP Registered Member status

FASET (Fall Arrest Safety Equipment Training) is delighted and proud to have passed its audit and retained its SSiP Registered Member status. SSiP (Safety Schemes in Procurement) was founded in May 2009 following the government report on accelerating the SME

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

UK Construction 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

Debate over wearing face masks on site continues

The coronavirus pandemic has raised all kinds of new health and safety concerns and a raft of new guidance measures for organisations in all sectors. In the construction and FM sectors, where the vast majority of work is carried out

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

FASET, as the construction industry’s not-for-profit organisation providing quality guidance and training amongst workers, 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 prone

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

Construction contracting update

Secretary of State for Housing Robert Jenrick announced major changes to the planning system in an article for The Telegraph recently. The reforms will introduce simpler and faster processes to deliver the homes and places needed in areas designated for

Further easing of COVID-19 restrictions good news for employers

The latest government update on the easing of lockdown restrictions in England, issued on 31st July and following a rise in the number of coronavirus cases, includes the following: whilst there are local restrictions on household contact in certain areas,

Affordable Homes Scheme Will Support Construction Sector

The Affordable Homes Guarantee Scheme 2020, approximated at £3 billion, will increase investment in providers of affordable housing and support the delivery of a significant number of new affordable homes. The contract for a delivery partner to operate the scheme

Executive summary of the NICPP 2020/21 published

Build UK has published an executive summary of the National Infrastructure and Construction Procurement Pipeline 2020/21 to help the industry understand recent Government announcements on the delivery of £37 billion of economic and social infrastructure projects. Build UK is a

FASET plans to secure worker safety for the new ‘workspace’

FASET plans to secure worker safety for the new ‘workspace’ With a mass shift to remote working since late March 2020, a number of FM experts and commentators are speculating that COVID-19 will bring an end to the office as

Scotland moves to Phase 4 of Construction Restart Plan

Scotland moves to Phase 4 of Construction Restart Plan Construction sites in Scotland have been given the go ahead to progress to Phase 4 of the Construction Restart Plan, with physical distancing being maintained or controlled close working with PPE.

CSCS introduces Prepaid Accounts Facility

CSCS introduces Prepaid Accounts Facility The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) has launched a new Prepaid Accounts facility. Prepaid Accounts can be loaded with credit and then used to pay for CSCS card applications. This means that CSCS card applications

“The biggest challenge to building safety for 40 years”

The government has finished drafting the Building Safety Bill, which it describes as containing the biggest changes to building safety for 40 years. The draft bill brings in new regulations in the wake of the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire and

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,

New Government guidance on Apprenticeships

New government guidance on apprenticeships Apprenticeships are the lifeblood of the construction industry and it is vital that the next generation of workers has access to the latest skills, training and guidance to ensure they can perform all disciplines of

Government publication indicates commitment to ‘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,

“Be Safe, Don’t Fall, Stay Alive”

“Be Safe, Don’t Fall, Stay Alive” The No Falls Foundation – the UK’s only charity devoted exclusively to the work at height sector – has launched a new initiative called ‘Be Safe, Don’t Fall, Stay Alive’. Despite the pressures to

The HSE announces a fall in working at height fatalities

Last week, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) released its ‘Workplace Fatal Injuries in Great Britain 2020’ annual statistics. Headline figures from the report are: 111 workers were killed in 2019/20 RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations)

The government announces new plans to get Britain building again

Measures to help the construction industry to boost building and return to work safely are being introduced this week (commencing 22nd June). The announcement from Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick MP stated that planning permission deadlines will be extended, planning appeals

Easing of guidelines good news for safety systems industry

On 23rd June, Prime Minister Boris Johnson described Britain’s “long hibernation period” as edging towards its end. He was, of course, referring to the gradual relaxing of guidelines for living with the coronavirus over the last few weeks and in

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: a guide

The government has announced that from 1st July 2020, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme is changing. The new document is available here: Claim for your employees’ wages through the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: a step by step guide for employers