Build UK Update

Face Coverings in Construction during Coronavirus
Following the introduction of new restrictions last week, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has updated its statement on face coverings. The Use of Face Coverings in Construction during Coronavirus (COVID‐19) now recommends that face coverings are worn where workers on site are not required to wear Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) and their workplace (which may include welfare and changing facilities, office or meetings rooms) meets all of the following criteria:

• an enclosed space;
• where social distancing isn’t always possible;
• and where they come into contact with others they do not normally meet.

In line with Government guidance on premises providing hospitality, face coverings must be worn in site canteens except when seated at a table to eat or drink.

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NHS QR Code Required in Canteens
Following the launch of the NHS COVID‐19 app in England and Wales, canteens must create and display an official NHS QR code poster. The list of designated venues includes ‘cafes including workplace canteens’ which must record contact details of customers, visitors and staff. The NHS QR code is the easiest way of doing this, and the Government guidance states that such venues in England “do not have to ask people who choose to ‘check in’ using the official NHS QR code to provide their contact details”.

Talent Retention Scheme
Businesses across the industry are making good use of the new Construction Talent Retention Scheme, and there is a call for those in the East and West Midlands to promote their vacancies and tap into the growing pool of candidates in these areas. Over 250 applications for jobs have already been made through the system since its launch less than two months ago, and the first candidates have now been successfully redeployed. With the end of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme approaching on 31 October, the system will have a key role to play in retaining talent within construction.

TrustMark Requirements
TrustMark has published guidance on the requirements for its Scheme Operators under the new Green Homes Grant, which should be read in conjunction with the Framework Operating Requirements. The requirements for TrustMark Registered Businesses will be published shortly.

Insolvency Measures
Measures to protect businesses from insolvency during coronavirus will be extended, including the virtual holding of AGMs until 30 December, restrictions on statutory demands and winding‐up petitions until 31 December, and the prohibition of termination clauses and the modifications to the moratorium procedure until 30 March 2021.