The Construction Industry Coronavirus (CICV) Forum, of which the Door and Hardware Federation is a part, has released a new video, urging trade workers to keep protecting themselves and others from contracting Covid-19, as restrictions are relaxed in the UK. The 90-second animation is the latest in a series of easy-to-follow films.
Among practical advice, the animation encourages construction professionals to get vaccinated, register with ‘Test and Protect’, take regular lateral flow tests and familiarise themselves with the rules around self-isolation. The video also reminds workers to carry out thorough risk assessments, keep workspaces ventilated, to wash their hands, tools and surfaces regularly, to continue to observe physical distancing and to wear appropriate face coverings, where required, while on site.
Rebecca Crosland, chair of the Forum’s health and safety group, and head of health and safety at the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), said: “With the recent relaxation of Covid-19 rules, we are now entering a new phase where it is still vitally important to be careful both in our professional and personal lives. This video is designed to remind construction professionals that it’s vital not to forget the lessons learned so far, and of the practical steps they should all keep taking to protect themselves and their customers, colleagues and loved ones.
“Make no mistake – Covid-19 is still a very real threat and we can’t afford to relax yet,” she continued. “However, hopefully this will serve as a practical reminder to familiarise themselves with the latest government advice and continue carrying out the safe working practices that have been adopted over the past 18 months.”
Iain Mason, chair of the Forum’s communications subgroup and director of membership and communication at SELECT (another member of the Forum), added: “Since the CICV Forum began in March 2020, our animations have proved to be highly effective in delivering vial health and safety messaging, and we hope this new video will continue to get more important advice across to construction professional everywhere. It’s been heartening to see how people across the industry have pulled together to get us through the past 18 months, and as we enter this new phases, we must ensure that we all continue with this level of cooperation and collaboration. This latest animation continues the Forum’s key message that we are all #InThisTogether and the importance of workers taking personal responsibility to protect themselves, their colleagues and the wider community.”
The CICV Forum is made up of 29 trade associations, professional services bodies and companies. Since its inception, it has maintained a steady supply of information and practical advice to the sector, as well as carrying out surveys, producing animations and posters, hosting webinars and speaking with government ministers. Last month, it issued a secure site risk assessment template and a close working checklist to help construction professionals plan for projects.
