Coronavirus Update – Thursday 21st May 2020

The results of the latest Build UK materials survey suggest that, whilst the demand for plaster and plasterboard has eased compared to a couple of weeks ago, both are likely to remain in short supply for the short and medium term. Aggregates and bricks were also cited by members, as well as plasterboard fixings, internal and external insulation, and partitioning metal. Not surprisingly, there is also still significant demand for FFP2 and FFP3 facemasks, gloves and disposable coveralls. Thank you to everyone who responded; the information helps us to demonstrate the ongoing demand for materials and products and keep the supply chain open.

Build UK members continue to share examples and information on how they are implementing the Site Operating Procedures across a range of sites and activities. Any queries on the information should be directed to the relevant member and, if you have similar examples you would like to share, please contact Build UK.

• Canary Wharf Contractors ‐ SOP Compliance and Control Measures
• International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) ‐ COVID‐19 Safe Operating Guidance ‐ Using MEWPs, MCWPs and Hoists
• ISG ‐ COVID‐19: Working Within the New Normal
• Willmott Dixon ‐ Globe Theatre Restoration Case Study.

CITB has been re‐opening Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test centres in England this week. The majority of Pearson Professional Centres in England are now operational, with the Internet Test Centre (ITC) network being reintroduced on a one‐by‐one basis once they have confirmed the implementation of social distancing measures. To find your nearest test centre and confirm whether it is open, visit the booking website, select the test you wish to take and enter your postcode.

The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is supporting the Conflict Avoidance Pledge developed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Aimed at helping deliver projects on time and budget with fewer disputes, the pledge commits clients and contractors to implementing conflict avoidance measures in their contracts and on site.

With the number of reported incidents of fraud and cyber‐crime on the rise, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has published guidance to support small businesses moving from the physical to the digital to put in place new cyber security measures.

Welsh Government Guidance

Businesses should continue to follow the most up‐to‐date Government guidance and for the latest updates please follow Build UK on Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any construction‐specific queries or feedback on what is happening within the industry, please contact Build UK