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This snapshot taken on 26/07/2008, shows web content selected for preservation by The National Archives. External links, forms and search boxes may not work in archived websites.
CSU's work on skills and training is in line with wider Departmental policy on the development of skills. A wide range of training programmes are available for those involved in construction, from various training providers. These cater for everyone, from those wishing to embark on a college course, to work-related training for professionals. Information and guidance specifically for SMEs is available from Businesslink, Train to Gain and the relevant Sector Skills Councils (see pages on Key Partners).
We welcome the construction industry's drive towards a full qualified and competent workforce, and the associated Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) and affiliated schemes. These seek to stress the importance of competency, and improve health and safety performance in the industry. Further information about CSCS is available from their website.
Health and safety is a huge issue for the construction industry given the large number of fatalities and accidents. It has a direct impact on public perception of the industry and is one of the most obvious areas to be addressed in the Respect for People programme.
BERR works alongside the HSE and other Government Departments to ensure a joined up approach to safety and related policy areas. HSE leads on the enforcement of legislation and associated Codes of Practice. They have also undertaken a range of programmes to promote best practice in health and safety, many of which stemmed from the 2001 and 2005 Safety Summits.
Working closely with partners including the HSE, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) and industry bodies, The Unit has produced three guidance leaflets on the subject of risk management, particularly in the context of employers' liability insurance. Links are given to PDF versions that can be downloaded. They are also available as hard copy - search for construction insurance under Reports and Publications.
The industry's workforce is mainly male, with a low proportion of people from the ethnic minorities, although there are regional variations. Detailed analyses have been compiled and are available from ConstructionSkills. SummitSkills is also doing work in this area.
There has been increasing focus on the fact that there is a huge, largely untapped source of quality workers for the industry. There are many opportunities available for women in construction, and a number of organisations exist specifically to provide training and placements for women in the industry. The Sector Skills Councils have information about their programmes to tackle this issue, and signpost to other organisations working in this area. The Constructing Excellence PeopleZone also provides useful information.
The CIS provides a sector-specific tax regime for those registered as self-employed, which is administered by HMRC.
Migrant working is a recognised feature of construction, which raises many issues about language, safety, training, and inclusion in the wider Respect for People agenda. The Unit works closely with the Sector Skills Councils, HSE, and the UK Border Agency to help ensure that the needs of overseas workers are catered for.
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