Builders face immediate shutdowns if they fail to comply with stone cutting ban, government looks into builder licenses, and tradespeople urged to apply sunscreen
Builders could face immediate site shutdowns if they fail to comply with a new ban on dry cutting of engineered stone, the FMB warned last week.
HSE has launched a major inspection drive in response to growing concerns about dangerous levels of silica dust released during the cutting of quartz worktops.
Inspectors are targeting construction sites and fabrication workshops.
The issue was also debated in the Houses of Parliament last week, where Eastleigh MP Liz Jarvis called for stronger legal protections and dramatically improved awareness.
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The government is in the early stages of exploring builder licenses as part of a post-Grenfell regulatory overhaul.
The licensing model would apply across the industry, including those working on smaller scale and domestic dwellings.
The government has launched a call for evidence to better understand the challenges affecting individuals and organisations.
To participate, click here.
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One in five tradespeople only apply sunscreen when conditions feel hot or sunny, claims research from Marley.
Although awareness about the need for sun protection has improved in recent years, most construction workers still expose themselves to harmful UV radiation on cooler days.
Marly is encouraging anybody working outside to treat sunscreen as part of their regular PPE routine.
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