How to step up construction welfare standards

UK law mandates adequate welfare facilities under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, covering essentials such as toilets, wash areas, rest spaces, and PPE storage. Beyond compliance, prioritising worker comfort boosts morale, safety, and efficiency.

At the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS), we champion these standards and encourage sites to go further through our Code of Considerate Practice.

Areas for improvement

Persistent concerns regarding poor hygiene and sanitation on construction sites led the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to issue updated guidance on welfare standards in 2022. Alongside ongoing efforts to attract a more diverse workforce, this has helped increase awareness of the importance of maintaining high-quality welfare facilities. However, while significant progress has been made, there is still room for improvement.

Inclusive and culturally sensitive facilities

Historically, construction site welfare provisions have not always addressed the diverse needs of workers. Investing in inclusive infrastructure can help promote equity, improve workforce retention, and uphold dignity and respect for all employees. Essential considerations include:

• Secure and hygienic toilets - Lockable, self-contained units equipped with sanitary disposal facilities.
• Private spaces for nursing mothers - Dedicated rooms for nursing and changing, ensuring comfort and privacy.
• Well-equipped rest areas - Comfortable seating, climate control, and food preparation facilities to support worker wellbeing.
• Multi-faith rooms - Dedicated spaces for prayer and reflection.
• Culturally inclusive toilets - Availability of squat and gender-neutral toilets to accommodate personal and cultural preferences.

Hygiene, sanitation and accessibility

Maintaining high hygiene standards is essential for worker health, site conditions, and overall productivity. Key measures include:

• Routine cleaning and maintenance - Frequent cleaning of washrooms with readily available soap and hand sanitiser.
• Sanitary disposal bins - Ensuring all toilets are equipped with appropriate disposal units for hygiene and dignity.
• Showers and changing areas - Providing adequate facilities for workers engaged in physically demanding or hazardous tasks.
• Clear signage and accessibility - Clearly marked welfare areas to ensure ease of access for all workers.
• Availability of PPE and secure storage - Readily accessible personal protective equipment and secure storage for personal belongings.

Best practices in action

The following initiatives, recognised as best practice during CCS inspections, highlight how sites can enhance welfare facilities in alignment with the CCS Code of Considerate Practice.

Multiplex Construction Europe created a dedicated chill-out room to provide workers with a quiet, comfortable space to unwind and recharge. Previously, workers resorted to finding quiet corners in changing areas.

Research shows that short breaks can enhance focus, mood, and overall wellbeing. The room, designed with workforce input, features soft lighting, calming imagery, and cosy furniture, offering a much-needed respite from high-stress environments.

Mace introduced boot drying racks to help combat persistent issues caused by prolonged exposure to wet conditions, such as trench foot, colds, and athlete’s foot. By ensuring that workers have access to dry boots daily, the initiative has significantly improved comfort, reduced absenteeism due to foot-related health issues, and boosted morale on site.

McLaughlin & Harvey identified a gap in awareness and support for male incontinence and prostate health among its workforce. A site survey revealed that many workers were unfamiliar with early symptoms of prostate cancer and the impact of incontinence. To address this, M&H introduced sanitary wipes, incontinence pads, and educational resources in welfare areas, breaking the stigma around these health issues. This proactive approach has helped to encourage open conversations and early health intervention, as well as providing practical support.

The bottom line

Great welfare facilities should not be seen merely as a legal requirement, they can significantly improve worker morale, safety, and productivity. Investing in inclusive, hygienic, and well-maintained spaces, can promote a healthier, happier and more efficient workforce.

Alex Minett is chief strategy & risk officer at the Considerate Constructors Scheme.

About the CCS

The organisation has worked with the construction industry and the public for the last 30 years to raise building standards, build trust in construction and hold the industry to account. Its Code of Considerate Practice aims to ensure that construction companies operate with integrity, create a supportive, inclusive, and healthy workplace, positively engage with the public and communities they operate in and minimise their impact on the environment.

In 2024, almost £219bn of construction activity across more than 7,626 sites, suppliers and organisations registered with the CCS and 8,217 monitoring visits to sites took place.