The Construction Industry Coronavirus (CICV) Forum is urging operatives to make a safe start of 2021 with its face mask campaign, as construction work is set to continue during lockdown.
The collective has launched an animation and downloadable infographic to remind workers that it’s vitally important to help protect everyone by following the rules and using the right face covering correctly.
It has also reinforced its ongoing reminders to workers about travelling and working in domestic projects safely, staying COVID aware in their social lives, as well as reminding the public to allow construction operatives to carry out their work unhindered.
The latest initiative, called Mask for Task: Cover for COVID, follows the recent news that construction work can continue during lockdown, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced this week.
It emphasises in its infographic that workers should wear the appropriate respirator or mask for the task, and that a face covering of suitable material should be worn when moving around site.
It also gives specific instructions on how to wear face coverings, as well as instructions for taking care of personal protective equipment, such as storing masks in a sealable bag when not in use.
As the industry picks up tools again after the festive break, the CICV Forum is also reiterating the collective’s latest guidance on practical measures that contractors and workers can follow to protect themselves, their colleagues, customers, friends and family.
Rebecca Crosland, chair of the CICV Forum’s health and safety sub-group, said: “With essential construction work being allowed to continue during lockdown, it is incumbent on everyone working in the sector to ensure that they are operating safely, whatever their capacity.
“One of the most direct ways of doing this is to ensure correct mask use, which our latest infographic and animation promotes. The information is easy to follow and will help operatives protect themselves and their colleagues, customers, friends and family.
“We are also repeating our other range of health and safety messaging about travel, social distancing and domestic work to ensure everyone is clear on exactly what behaviours are required at all times.”
Iain Mason, chair of the Forum’s communications sub-group, added: “Since the CICV Forum was established, our animations and infographics have proved effective tools, and have helped us deliver essential messaging to an extremely wide audience.
“The new animation is designed to be shared on social media, and the poster can be downloaded free of charge from our website. Both reinforce the responsibility that everyone in construction shares to make sure that they use the correct face covering for the correct situation, worn in the correct manner.”
