The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has urged the government to bring forward the relaxation on self-isolation rules to alleviate the workforce shortage the construction sector is currently experiencing.
From 16 August, new regulations on self-isolation will mean that anyone who is double-vaccinated will not have to self-isolate and can continue to work if they are notified via the NHS App, and who have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 or who has been ‘pinged’. They will however be advised to take a PCR test.
In the week to 7 July, half a million people had been pinged by the app, which is the highest figure recorded.
But for now, construction businesses are being severely hampered as staff are having to stay home after being pinged, even if they are fully vaccinated. The issue is further exacerbating the existing difficult trading due to materials and staff shortages.
Therefore, the CLC has proposed that the 16 August relaxation date be brought forward as soon as is possible.
The move would incentivise workers to get vaccinated, while alleviating pressures on the delivery of vital construction projects and maintenance of national infrastructure. Construction continues to widely implement the Site- and Branch Operating Procedures to continue to operate safely.
Andy Mitchell, co-chair of the CLC, said: “We have reports from across the industry of plants, sites and offices having to wind down activities as staff have been asked to isolate. This is putting very significant pressure on the sector, risking project delivery and even the viability of some firms.
“Where staff are already fully vaccinated, and recognising that such people will be free to work from 16 August anyway, we are asking the government to bring forward this date for essential industries like construction, ensuring that it doesn’t grind to a halt.”
