Consumer Campaign Launched to Help Boost Construction Industry Recovery

New guidance is being issued to homeowners for when they have tradespeople carry out work in their homes. 

The Work Safe. Safe Workcampaign, launched today (Friday 3 July), has been developed by TrustMark, the only government endorsed quality scheme for tradespeople, and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

The booklet gives practical advice to homeowners about what COVID-safety measures should be discussed and carried out before, during and after work is done in and around their home. It also sets out the need for conversations to be had with the tradesperson and what actions they should expect the tradespeople to deliver. It provides simple and clear information on tasks that should be completed and a list of helpful questions to ask. 

Simon Ayers, Chief Executive of TrustMark, said: “As the lockdown restrictions begin to ease across the country more homeowners will want work carried out in their homes. This is vital in not only the construction industry’s recovery to the coronavirus pandemic, but also the country’s recovery. However, we know that many people have reservations about what is expected of them and what they need to provide and do during the work is taking place to ensure it is safe. In providing clear and simple information, the Work Safe. Safe Workcampaign will inform homeowners and give them confidence in this new reality we are finding ourselves in.”

The eight-page booklet, which the tradesperson can give to the homeowner before the visit to the property, is a three-part guide setting out what types of tasks are the responsibility of the homeowner, such as disinfecting door handles before and after the tradesperson comes into the home. It also sets out what responsibilities lie with the tradesperson, such as providing their own PPE. It covers the time before, during and after the work has been completed. There is also a video animation to help further explain the guidance.   

With recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), showing the construction industry had its worst month (April) for output since records began, it is hoped the Work Safe. Safe Workcampaign will give the consumer confidence in having work done in around their home, which construction industry leaders believe is pivotal in the country’s economic recovery post the coronavirus pandemic.

TrustMark worked with BEIS to develop the campaign and it has received support from many energy and construction industry sectors, including the Construction Leadership Council. 

Andy Mitchell, co-chair of the Construction Leadership Council, said: “Government and industry have issued new guidelines for tradespeople that promote safe working but there is very little in the way of consumer facing guidance. Staying safe is a joint responsibility, and we all have a duty to protect each other. We hope the Work Safe. Safe Workbooklet will provide valuable information and reassurance to homeowners when having work carried out in and around their homes.”

More information about the Work Safe. Safe Work campaign and the booklet is available at https://worksafesafework.info