AUDIO NEWS: Tradespeople quitting industry due to tool theft and materials prices due to increase
Posted: Friday, July 25th, 2025
Growing numbers of tradespeople are quitting the industry due to tool theft. A survey by NFU Mutual estimates that one in 20 tradies have considered leaving the industry, while one in 15 knew someone who has already downed tools. Nearly three quarters of those surveyed said they had been a victim of tool theft in the last year. While one in five tradespeople also said they lived in fear of it happening again. Zoe Knight, head of commercial at NFU Mutual said the figures showed how “how devastating this can be for individuals.” --- International tariffs on steel, aluminium and timber are likely to push up materials prices and impact jobs, claims a report from QBE and Control Risks. UK firms reliant on imported aluminium and US timber are particularly at risk due to the escalating trade rows. The same report also highlighted the surging cost of copper, which has jumped by nearly 30% since the start of 2025, due to trade barriers and skyrocketing global demand driven by renewable energy and EV projects. --- The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has registered the lowest Accident Frequency Rate (AFR) among its members since it started keeping records, 50 years ago. The 2025 Safety Report also highlighted a record low in the Accident Incident Rate (AIC), despite a 22% growth in membership. --- To listen to the construction news please click below.
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