CIF calls for zero tolerance towards drugs, alcohol in construction industry

BUILDERS’ representatives have called for a zero tolerance approach to drugs and alcohol in the construction industry.

The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has made the call as part of its nationwide campaign to improve site safety.

The lobby group is focusing its attention on bringing unions, architects, engineers and surveyors into the safety loop in an all-out effort to reduce accidents and save lives.

It is also calling for greater safety controls in the pre-construction and design stages.

The CIF said trade unions and construction workers have a major role to play in contributing to health and safety and it wants on-site workers to take responsibility for safe practices.

“In particular, there should be a zero tolerance for alcohol or any other drugs in the construction industry,” CIF president Gerald Purcell said.

“Designers should know where to draw the line with safety in mind. We also welcome the safety initiatives from the Forum for the Construction

Industry and the new pre-qualification system for public projects whereby contractors will have to qualify under defined criteria, which include important safety standards.

“Contractors who do not meet these standards will not go forward to bid for projects.

“In time this system, which must have industry agreement on the standards as well as being competition policy compliant, should be applied to both private and public projects and to sub-contracting.”

Mr Purcell said the CIF saw a need for drawings, specifications and design stage safety plans to incorporate safe systems, safe products and safe assembly options.

“Public safety, site security and waste arrangements need to be dealt with and planned for before invitations to tender,” Mr Purcell added.

The massive investment and commitment by CIF members in safety training is unprecedented.

More than 230,000 workers have now gone through the FÁS Safe Pass Scheme, approximately 10,000 with Construction Skills Cards.

More than 5,000 managers have been trained in safety by CIF, 1,000 full-time safety personnel have been recruited and trained and more than 800 workers safety representatives have been selected and trained.

The cost to contractors’ employers in the past three years is in excess of €150 million.

Twenty-two people died on building sites last year.