The SCF Health & Safety Forum has delivered two events at which supply chain partners were invited to discuss the challenges and opportunities in ensuring safely run projects, and there was a particular focus on improving the skills and operating environment of site supervisors.

One event was held in Bristol and one in Winchester to attract a range of subcontractors who work across the framework’s South East and South West lots.  Attendees came from a variety of trades , including groundworks, scaffolding, drylining,  steel frame and M&E providing the opportunity to identify common issues.

The events proved very useful for tier one contractors and their supply chain partners to discuss some fast-changing conditions and challenges within construction and in particular skills shortages, budgetary & time pressures and an often transient workforce. Add to this uncertainty about the effects of changing legislation around qualification requirements, and it is evident that the industry faces a number of challenges that no single company or organisation can solve.

Individually, the SCF contractors have a range of initiatives around engaging positively with supply chain partners; the SCF Forum now has the opportunity to discuss the findings of the two events, and identify activities or systems that can be piloted to explore if the SCF tier one contractors can collectively work with subcontractors in further supporting supervisors.

The SCF Health & Safety Forum meets quarterly and brings the framework’s contractors together to share best practice and address areas of mutual interest and concern.