National construction glazing specialist RED Systems says it has put together a guide that can keep construction workers safe during the coronavirus crisis. Tony McDonough reports
A Wirral construction specialist has devised a guide that it claims will allow building projects to continue safely through the coronavirus crisis.
RED Systems, which is currently working on 12 major projects across the UK, specialises in the installation of commercial glass facades. One of its projects is for Willmott Dixon on an LJMU scheme in Liverpool city centre.
RED founder and managing director, Michael Green, developed the system, which aims to safely overcome social distancing constraints which are inherent in the industry, to comply with government ‘go to work’ advice and help kick start a return to active sites.
He has been working with a consortium of clients from across the industry along with a number of Health and Safety experts to develop a robust operating procedure to protect employees and encourage safe working practices in line with Government guidelines.
The guide, which can be downloaded by clicking here, offers detailed guidelines around areas such as travel, site access points, hygiene, working arrangements, changing and showering and canteens and eating arrangements.
“We know this is a very contentious issue in the industry right now from the labourer on site to the boardrooms of huge construction firms,” said Mr Green. “The public is being faced with a raft of mixed messages.
“Although the revised Government guidelines are very clearly asking the industry to keep working and help support the economy, most sites have closed because of fears surrounding social distancing and negative feedback from the public.
“The industry is in paralysis and we can only continue if we innovate and harness our H&S expertise to adapt our working practices.”
RED, which has offices in both Neston and London, is hoping its Safe Operating Procedure will be adopted across the construction industry and beyond through to the supply chain which is also in paralysis.
Mr Green added: “We just want to get this guidance out there. We have already consulted with a number of our major clients who have welcomed the initiative and are already implementing their own versions of the guidance. The constraints we face in light of Covid-19 simply must be overcome if the industry is to continue to contribute to the economy.”
He is still actively looking for input from experts and firms from across the construction world and will continue to fine tune the model as the situation continues to develop. Contact details can be found on the firm’s website.