In a letter to the construction sector, new business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng highlighted the “crucial contribution” that the industry is making during lockdown.

He stated:

“As the new Business Secretary, I would like to take this opportunity to restate the Government position, which is that firms and tradespeople in the construction sector and its supply chain, including merchants, suppliers and product manufacturers, should continue to operate during this national lockdown. I would also like to make it clear that where it is essential to travel or to stay in accommodation, whether to get to your work or for the purposes of carrying out your work, those in the industry are able to do so.”

Construction is making a major contribution to the UK’s economic recovery

Kwasi Kwarteng added: “It is vital that construction continues through these unsettling times and I want to reassure you that the Government values the crucial contribution your sector is making. Whether delivering on large or small construction sites, and in peoples’ homes across the country, in builders’ merchants, designing and project managing schemes or producing construction and mineral products, you are making a major contribution to the economic recovery following Covid-19.

“To help ensure that it is safe for you to operate whilst carrying out your work, the Construction Leadership Council has published the Site Operating Procedures (SOP) and Branch Operating Procedures, which reflect the latest guidance from Government. The Government and devolved administrations continue to update their safe working guidance which can be found on GOV.UK. My Ministerial team and I are in regular contact with industry leaders about the risks, issues and challenges you face. Thank you again to everyone operating in the UK construction sector. You are making a hugely valued and critical contribution to our country.”

Symptom-free construction workers to get coronavirus tests

This week, Construction Enquirer reported that construction is among the industries to be targeted with regular rapid testing for workers without coronavirus symptoms. Construction workers will be offered rapid lateral flow tests which return results within 30 minutes. Employers are also being encouraged to participate in large-scale testing programmes.

Do you require a structural warranty for your project? The Advantage team is proud to work with our clients on developments throughout the UK, adhering to all social distancing guidelines to ensure that projects are covered by the appropriate structural warranty. To find out more about how we could help you with your project, call: 0845 900 3969 or email: sales@ahci.co.uk