Stirling MSP welcomes construction sector restart
It means that close working can now take place on-site – with appropriate PPE use – if necessary.
Ministers agreed to the move after receiving assurances that this would not compromise PPE supplies required for the NHS.
Bruce Crawford said:
‘Stirling’s construction industry is extremely important to the local and national economy. Throughout the pandemic, non-essential projects were rightly paused to halt the spread of COVID-19. I’ve worked closely with industry leaders and the Scottish Government to ensure sites can open safely, workers will have the protections they need, and businesses can resume their important work.
‘We all know the economic impact of this pandemic will be widespread, and sectors such as the construction industry will play a crucial part in promoting recovery, protecting jobs and boosting local and regional development.’
Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said:
“I am pleased that the Construction industry can take this further, important step in returning to work and continuing its response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Controlled close working will enable the sector to carry out tasks that have not been possible since the lockdown began, but we are of course not back to business as usual yet and the health and safety of construction workers and the public remains the top priority.
“The move into Phase 4 of the restart plan is subject to appropriate use of PPE, and we have agreed to it only after making certain that this will not impact on supplies required by the NHS.
“The sector’s response to this crisis continues to be responsible and measured, but I must reiterate again how important it is that, in order to ensure public and workforce confidence and safety, that the latest Scottish Government and the safe operating guidance put in place by Construction Scotland – are followed.”
Background
- The construction restart model was devised by the industry in line with Scottish Government guidelines.
- Coronavirus (COVID-19): construction sector guidance includes links to other relevant resources, including trade union links and industry guidance.
- The Safe Operating Guidance is available on the Construction Scotland website.