U.K. rental company Speedy has released a “manifesto” calling for an “urgent and collaborative response” from government and industry if construction in the U.K. is to “face up to its challenges and become a world-class market in the next decade.”
The document outlines a package of what it calls “priority measures” designed to fuel future growth, while delivering on “the biggest industry challenges in a generation,” such as low carbon and skills development.
Speedy’s statement also addresses health and safety issues, saying it supports government’s current targets for reductions in fatal and major incidents and work-related illness. Speedy said it “strongly opposes” any reduction in funding for the Health and Safety Executive, calling instead for additional front-line inspectors to improve compliance.
On skills development, Speedy calls for a cross-industry “skills map” to enable employers to quickly access available labor when the recovery is secured.
Speedy also outlines a range of solutions designed to help the industry address the low-carbon agenda, including a new government-endorsed “green-labeling code” requiring all tools and equipment to carry independent data on their energy efficiency and emissions, similar to the automotive industry. Taking a lead from the 2012 Olympic Games site, where Speedy is part of the Construction Site Solutions consortium, Speedy said emissions caused by site deliveries could be reduced by shared on-site facilities for projects over an agreed contract value threshold, as well as mandatory use of low-emission electric vehicles for the movement of goods and equipment, a move pioneered by Speedy in 2007.
“We need to create a world-class society,” said Steve Corcoran, Speedy chief executive. “To do this we need the best road and rail networks, the greenest power supply, the fastest communications infrastructure, the most inspiring schools for our children, the most modern hospitals and the highest-quality housing. What’s more, we need to deliver them cost-effectively and safely, with a healthy and proud workforce, using methods and materials that minimize environmental impact.”
Speedy Hire is based in Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside, U.K.
