Safety first: a potential boost for the construction industry, but business must be prepared

News that the UK and EU are working on a potential agreement to extend Visa access for skilled EU workers will come as a relief for the construction sector, but Iprism’s Chief Underwriting Officer, Aaron Woodhams cautions that businesses must be prepared to put safety first to mitigate liability risk.

The construction industry felt an immediate impact when skilled European workers returned to their home countries following Brexit. The sector witnessed a sharp decline in bricklayers, electricians, and plumbers, many of whom were highly skilled professionals who had contributed significantly to UK construction projects. This exodus didn't just create staffing challenges though; it drove up labour costs and extended project timelines, ultimately contributing to increased claims periods and higher settlement values. Property maintenance work, escape of water claims, and high-value property repairs all took longer to resolve due to the reduced availability of skilled tradespeople.

The prospect of extended visa arrangements for skilled workers represents excellent news for the construction sector. European workers have consistently demonstrated strong work ethics and technical expertise that the UK market desperately needs. Their return could help stabilise labour costs, reduce project completion times, and ultimately contribute to more efficient claims resolution. However, with this opportunity comes a crucial responsibility that employers must not overlook.

Looking after returning workers

The potential return of skilled migrant workers is welcome news, however construction companies must ensure robust health and safety programmes are in place from day one. UK health and safety regulations may differ significantly from those in workers' home countries, and language barriers can create genuine risks if not properly addressed.

Employers need to focus on clear communication by delivering health and safety instructions in plain, simple English, avoiding technical jargon and complex terminology. Consider providing materials in workers' native languages where possible, or ensure supervisors can communicate effectively across language barriers. Implementing buddy systems that pair new migrant workers with experienced team members provides crucial guidance during the initial period, creating a safety net while workers familiarise themselves with UK practices.

Visual learning tools such as video workshops, visual demonstrations, and pictorial guides can effectively overcome language barriers. Seeing safe working practices in action often communicates more effectively than written instructions alone. Starting new workers on basic tasks to assess competency before progressing to more complex responsibilities helps build confidence while maintaining safety standards.

The Health and Safety Executive provides excellent guidance specifically for employers working with non-English speaking workers, and numerous consultancy firms specialise in helping construction companies develop comprehensive programmes for migrant worker integration.

Extended visa access for skilled EU workers could be transformative for UK construction, helping to address critical labour shortages while bringing valuable expertise back to our sites. The construction industry has a responsibility to ensure that all workers can work safely and understand their rights. By investing in proper training, clear communication, and comprehensive support systems, employers can harness the benefits of a more diverse workforce while maintaining the highest safety standards and avoiding potential increases in liability claims.