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Insights from the ECITB Workforce Census 2024

Introduction

The Engineering Construction Industry (ECI) in Great Britain is undergoing a period of significant transformation, characterised by changing workforce demographics and mounting recruitment challenges. The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) has published its 2024 Workforce Census, offering a detailed analysis of these trends. This article explores the key findings of the census, focusing on workforce growth, demographic changes, and the pressing issue of skilled labour shortages.

Workforce Growth and Sectoral Changes

Expanding Workforce

Construction workers silhouetted against an orange sky — Image by wal_172619 from Pixabay

Between 2021 and 2024, the ECI workforce grew from 83,600 to 94,680 employees, reflecting a 13.2% increase. Forecasts predict an additional 11.7% growth by 2027, underscoring the sector’s resilience and expansion.

Shifts in Sectoral Employment

Nuclear Sector: The nuclear industry has become the largest employer, accounting for 39.2% of the workforce in 2024, surpassing the oil and gas sector. This highlights its increasing importance within Britain’s energy strategy.
Renewables Sector: The renewables sector has made significant strides, nearly doubling its share of the workforce to 6.2%, driven by growth in offshore wind and biomass projects.

Geographic Distribution of the Workforce

England: England hosts 70.8% of the ECI workforce, with prominent hubs in the North West, Humber Estuary, and the Reading-London corridor.
Scotland: Scotland accounts for 17% of the workforce, concentrated in the Central Belt and Aberdeen regions.
Offshore Workers: Offshore projects employ 9.9% of the workforce, underlining their critical role within the industry.

Demographic Trends

Ageing Workforce

An ageing workforce remains a key concern, with 14.7% of employees aged over 60, up from 11.6% in 2021. Workers under 30 comprise just 16.8% of the workforce. Roles such as platers, welders, and pipefitters are particularly affected, raising alarm about skill gaps as retirements loom.

Gender Representation

The proportion of women in the workforce has risen to 16.9%, up from 13.8% in 2021. Despite this progress, significant gender disparities remain across certain roles and regions, necessitating further action to improve inclusivity.

Ethnic Diversity

While workforce diversity has improved, representation remains below that of the economically active UK population. Regional disparities are evident, with London showing higher levels of diversity compared to other areas.

Recruitment Challenges

Increasing Hiring Difficulties

In 2024, 71% of employers reported recruitment difficulties, a marked rise from 53% in 2021. Key challenges include:

Skill Shortages: A lack of candidates with the required skills and experience.
Expectation Mismatches: Misalignment between employer expectations and candidate preferences.
Geographic Barriers: Challenges in attracting talent to specific locations, with some workers reluctant to relocate.

Roles in Critical Shortage

Certain positions are particularly difficult to fill, including:

Pipefitters
Welders
Commissioning Engineers
Project Managers

These shortages highlight the urgent need for targeted training and workforce development programmes.

Strategic Recommendations

To address these challenges and secure the future of the ECI, the ECITB report outlines the following strategies:

Succession Planning: Developing plans to transfer knowledge from retiring employees to younger workers.
Upskilling Initiatives: Investing in training programmes to address skill shortages in high-demand roles.
Diversity and Inclusion: Implementing policies to improve gender and ethnic diversity within the industry.
Mobility Incentives: Encouraging workforce mobility with relocation support and other incentives.

Conclusion

The 2024 ECITB Workforce Census provides vital insights into the state of the Engineering Construction Industry in Great Britain. Addressing the skilled labour shortage is crucial to ensuring the sector’s continued growth and the successful delivery of future projects. Collaboration between industry leaders, educational institutions, and government bodies will be essential in building a skilled, diverse, and resilient workforce capable of meeting the sector’s evolving demands.

Civil Engineering Construction Nationwide Sureties Safety

BSI to Release Revised BS 9991:2024 to Enhance Fire Safety in Residential Buildings

The British Standards Institution (BSI) is set to publish the revised BS 9991:2024, Fire safety in the design, management and use of residential buildings – Code of practice, on 27 November 2024. This significant update addresses key fire safety standards in residential settings, incorporating lessons from recent industry changes and heightened awareness following the Grenfell tragedy.

A building on fire — Photo by Vladimir Shipitsin: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-burning-house-covered-with-flames-11688880/

The new version supersedes the 2015 edition, offering enhanced guidance on fire safety measures and aligning with evolving regulations across the UK. While the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report, published in September 2024, did not specifically mandate changes to BS 9991, it reaffirmed the importance of robust, evidence-based standards.

Key Updates in BS 9991:2024

The revised standard introduces critical changes to enhance occupant safety and trust among stakeholders:

Expanded Scope: Now includes recommendations for residential care homes, a significant addition to its coverage.
Evacuation Lifts: Offers updated guidance on the design and implementation of evacuation lifts.
Sprinkler Installation: Adjusts height thresholds for mandatory sprinkler systems.
Single-Stair Buildings: Revises safety considerations for these designs, addressing a recurring concern in high-rise construction.

The updates aim to harmonise fire safety practices across the UK, bridging variations in regional regulations, including England’s Approved Document B, Scotland’s Technical Handbook 2, and Northern Ireland’s Technical Booklet E.

Scott Steedman, Director-General for Standards at BSI, emphasised the importance of this update: “The Grenfell tragedy and subsequent inquiry have brought the issue of building safety into focus for the whole sector and beyond. It is critical that we ensure all standards reflect the latest evidence.”

He highlighted that BS 9991:2024 offers comprehensive guidance on fire safety systems, ensuring effective escape routes and robust measures to protect occupants. The revisions also reflect the collective input from industry experts, regulators, and Fire and Rescue Services, following a thorough public consultation that generated over 1,800 comments.

Building a Safer Future

BS 9991:2024 aims to provide a “consensus-based mid-point” for the UK’s diverse fire safety regulations, fostering trust and compliance across the construction and property sectors. It underscores BSI’s commitment to upholding high safety standards in residential buildings and mitigating risks for both occupants and neighbouring properties.

For further details, BSI has published resources on their Standards Development Portal and is expected to host further discussions on implementing the revised guidance.

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Group of military students visit M25 junction 28 project

A National Highways project team recently welcomed a group of military students to a tour of one of our major schemes as part of an initiative to share experience.

The engineers of the future were given a tour of the new loop road, slip road and major structures and our Highways specialists explained the challenges of keeping traffic flowing whilst upgrading infrastructure on a busy junction.

Royal Engineers Visit Junction 28 — Viewing the Maylands Bridge at the A12 off slip. Image: National Highways

The Royal Engineers, known as the Sappers, are renowned for their organisational, planning and engineering skills; with no better place to learn than from industry experts working on the M25 project, Junction 28.

National Highways Project Manager, Zachary Pepper said: “It was great to be able to welcome the Royal Engineers to our construction site, which provided the students with valuable visual representation of the complexities of our major road construction project.”

Staff Sergeant, Will Wicker said: “During a recent site visit to the M25 Jct 28/ A12 upgrades I had the opportunity to lead a group of Royal Engineer Military Plant Foreman students as part of their civil engineering bachelor’s degree program. The visit was the culmination of their roads phase, providing them with a tangible connection between classroom theory and real-world application. The site visit provided valuable insights into the complexities of major road construction projects.

The group of military students visiting the site. Image: National Highways

“The students were able to observe firsthand the various phases of construction, including the minimal traffic management the site required, earthworks and bridge construction. The experience offered them a practical perspective on the engineering challenges and solutions involved in large scale projects like this one. I would like to extend our sincere thanks to Grahams and National Highways for their hospitality and for providing our students with this invaluable learning opportunity. The insights gained during the visit undoubtedly enhanced their understanding and appreciation of civil engineering in practice.”

Graham Project Manager Hugh McNally said: “We were delighted to welcome the engineers to the scheme. Seeing construction work up close and personal can be a real eye-opener, hopefully this visit has helped bridge the gap between theory and practical application”.

The project will bring improved traffic flow and support proposed economic growth in the area. With most of the construction, including four bridges, being done off the road network, disruption for the travelling public is minimised as much as possible.

Civil Engineering Construction News

New British Concrete Transport Association (BCTA) Aims to Transform UK Concrete Sector

The UK Ready Mixed Concrete sector stands to gain significantly from the establishment of the British Concrete Transport Association (BCTA), a new not-for-profit association. The BCTA, which brings together industry experts, is poised to address crucial issues within this specialist sector, enhancing its overall performance.

The BCTA has assembled a team of familiar and highly respected industry figures, each with unique expertise. Their collective goal is to elevate industry standards through their advice, guidance, and integrity and to shape the sector’s future through collaborative effort.

Lindsey Rudd, the current Acting BCTA Chair, who previously served as the Group Sales Director of TVS Interfleet and Director of McPhee Mixers, believes that now is an opportune moment to establish a new trade organisation. Lindsey believes the new organisation can continue and amplify the work initiated during his time as Chair of the Concrete Division of the British Aggregates Association (BAA).

“Having seen firsthand some of the issues that affect the industry, especially around Concrete delivery, concrete transport and the daily challenges that drivers and operators continue to face, bringing together a group of outstanding people willing to influence change for the right reasons, and address those problems that need adequate solution

“Establishing the new association will take time but establishing a group who genuinely care about doing the right thing presents an opportunity to improve and then maintain standards for everyone.

“Leading the charge of the BCTA are Lisa Fleming, MD of Logico and previous Chair of the BAA Transport Committee, and James Dawes, MD of Dawes Highway Safety and previous CSR Officer at the BAA. Their tireless work over the past few weeks and their willingness to sacrifice their time is a testament to their dedication to our cause.

“They will be supported by Scott Bell (JMW Solicitors), Gavin Brain (EMPI Awards), Jonathan Barker (Ready Mix Group), Mark Brooks (Blue Rinse), Dan Cowan (DEK Group), Jamie Clarke (Specialist Transport Consultant) and Jonathan Goldsmith (Watery News).Each brings ingredients to create a unique blend of the experts needed to influence change, with continuous and prodigious discussions to further add to the group in progress.

“Through this combined expertise, we believe established strategic partnerships will bring positive improvements to the critical issues surrounding transport, skills, health and safety, and the environment.

“While we may not yet have the resources or member numbers of the more established industry associations, we can provide an opportunity for everyone to have a voice in an industry through shared values.

“As we continue to work in the background and prepare for some exciting announcements, the team continues to prioritise pressing industry issues and has already started work on proactive solutions.

“It is an ambitious strategy, but the support we’ve gained shows that our joint commitment will give the industry an alternative, effective and real solution to shape the sector for many years.”

If you’d like to know more about the British Concrete Transport Association, please email info@britishconcrete.com or visit www.britishconcrete.org

Civil Engineering Construction Health and Safety

Ensuring Health and Safety on UK Construction Sites

Construction sites are dynamic environments where progress and productivity meet with inherent risks. In the United Kingdom, where the construction industry is a significant contributor to economic growth and infrastructure development, ensuring health and safety measures is paramount. From towering skyscrapers in urban landscapes to residential developments in suburban areas, every construction project demands a rigorous commitment to safeguarding the well-being of workers and the public.

Legal Framework:

The UK construction industry operates under strict regulatory frameworks designed to protect workers and mitigate potential hazards. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 serves as the cornerstone legislation, imposing general duties on employers, employees, and contractors to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all individuals involved in construction activities. Additionally, the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) provide a structured approach to managing health, safety, and welfare throughout the lifecycle of construction projects.

Risk Assessment and Management:

Before commencing any construction activity, thorough risk assessments must be conducted to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate control measures. Hazardous tasks such as working at height, excavation, and operation of heavy machinery require meticulous planning and adherence to strict safety protocols. Site managers must regularly review and update risk assessments to adapt to evolving project conditions and mitigate emerging risks.

Training and Competence:

Ensuring the competence of personnel is vital for maintaining a safe working environment. Construction workers must undergo comprehensive training programs to familiarise themselves with safety procedures, emergency protocols, and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Supervisors and managers play a crucial role in providing guidance and mentoring to workers, promoting a culture of safety and accountability across construction sites.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

The provision and utilisation of appropriate PPE are essential for minimising the risk of injury and exposure to hazardous substances. Construction workers must wear suitable protective gear, including hard hats, high-visibility clothing, safety boots, gloves, and eye protection, depending on the nature of their tasks. Employers are responsible for ensuring that PPE is readily available, properly maintained, and correctly worn by all personnel at all times.

Site Organisation and Housekeeping:

Maintaining a clean and organised construction site is fundamental to preventing accidents and injuries. Proper storage of materials, clear signage, and delineation of pedestrian and vehicle routes help mitigate the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Regular inspections and housekeeping routines ensure that potential hazards such as debris, spills, and uneven surfaces are promptly addressed, fostering a safe and efficient working environment.

Collaborative Approach:

Effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders are essential for promoting health and safety on construction sites. Contractors, subcontractors, designers, and clients must work together to address safety concerns, share information, and coordinate activities to minimise conflicts and hazards. Regular site meetings provide an opportunity to review progress, discuss safety issues, and implement corrective actions in a timely manner.

Continuous Improvement:

The pursuit of excellence in health and safety requires a commitment to continuous improvement and learning. Conducting incident investigations, analysing near misses, and soliciting feedback from workers are valuable practices for identifying systemic issues and implementing preventive measures. Embracing innovations such as wearable technology, drone surveillance, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) facilitates proactive risk management and enhances the overall safety culture within the construction industry.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, ensuring health and safety on UK construction sites is not merely a legal obligation but a moral imperative. By prioritising risk assessment, training, PPE provision, site organisation, and collaboration, stakeholders can create an environment where workers can thrive without compromising their well-being. As the construction industry continues to evolve and expand, a steadfast commitment to safety remains the foundation for sustainable growth and prosperity.

By adhering to stringent regulations, adopting best practices, and fostering a culture of safety, the UK construction sector can pave the way for safer, healthier, and more resilient communities for generations to come.

Civil Engineering Construction Public Works Contract Transport for the North

Blueprint for the North’s transport infrastructure

Transport for the North (TfN) has today (25 March 2024) published an ambitious plan for sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the North, enabled by transformational connectivity.

The new Strategic Transport Plan (STP) was approved at Transport for the North Board meeting in Leeds by Northern leaders. It outlines how with the right investment and policy levers, together with transformational transport infrastructure we could have a Northern economy that will be £118 billion larger by 2050.

Lord McLoughlin - Transport for the North Chair — Lord McLoughlin – Transport for the North Chair. Image: TfN

The blueprint which builds on the first plan published five years ago, sets out the case to transform the North’s transport infrastructure and services, demonstrating how better connectivity can enable economic growth, decarbonise our transport system and create more opportunities for all. The first STP enabled a step change in government funding for rail, by setting out the case for Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR).

TfN’s new Plan is focused on the outcomes needed for people and places, seeking to better connect communities and businesses with services and opportunities. It sets out robust monitoring and evaluation to measure progress year-on-year, making sure the Plan is on track.

The new STP:

Sets out the North’s ambition for near zero emissions from surface transport in the region by 2045
Supports efforts to reduce car dependency and create the capacity required to grow patronage on our public transport networks
Recognises the scale of change required in accessibility needed to unlock opportunity and reduce social exclusion by one million people by 2050
Puts in place a long-term ambition to treble the share of freight carried by rail.

Lord McLoughlin, Chair of Transport for the North, said: “Our Strategic Transport Plan sets out Transport for the North’s statutory advice to government on how the North, speaking with one voice, can reach a sustainable, socially inclusive transport network for the future, support growth and employment opportunities.

“The STP will lay the foundations for the transport infrastructure investment for the North for decades to come. We will provide further advice to government on how the plan can be implemented, from the pan-regional investment pipeline required, to efficiencies in how transport infrastructure and services are delivered. The evidence in this STP shows how with sustained investment, the right policy levers and enabling behaviour change, we can truly transform the North.”

The revised Strategic Transport Plan can be viewed on our website

Civil Engineering News

HS2 accident leaves one worker dead

A worker has died following an accident on HS2 on Thursday at the Balfour Beatty VINCI site near Solihull in the west Midlands.

The Enquirer understands the victim, who is believed to be in his 70s, was carrying out drilling work when the accident happened causing him to suffer a cardiac arrest.

He was airlifted to hospital for treatment where he was later pronounced dead.

An HS2 Ltd spokesperson said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that an employee working for a company in the supply chain of HS2’s contractor Balfour Beatty VINCI died today following an incident on site near Marston Green on Thursday 27 April.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this very sad time. We are working with our construction partner and the relevant authorities to understand the cause of this incident.”

Source: Construction Enquirer

Civil Engineering Construction Public Works Contract

Design reset urgently needed for HS2 Euston Station

At a time when the UK government is under pressure to manage the costs of its major infrastructure projects, the latest news from HS2 Euston is alarming. The costs of the project are set to double, and a full design reset is urgently needed to address the issues and risks involved.

The HS2 Euston Project: A Critical Overview

HS2 Euston Station Concept Design - Interior — Image: HS2

HS2 Euston is a part of the High Speed Two (HS2) rail network, which is expected to provide a faster and more reliable rail service between London and the North of England. The Euston project is particularly important, as it involves the redevelopment of the Euston station in London, which is a key transportation hub for the city.

A statement from National Audit Office (NAO) into the HS2 Euston Station development warns that forecast project costs have continued to balloon despite attempts to simplify the project.

The original plans for the project, which were announced in 2017, involved the construction of a new station building and the reconfiguration of the tracks and platforms. However, it soon became clear that the plans were not feasible, as they would have required the demolition of many homes and businesses in the area.

As a result, a revised plan was developed, which involved the construction of a smaller station building and the use of a tunnel to connect the high-speed lines to the existing lines. However, this plan has also faced significant challenges, as it involves complex engineering and construction work in a densely populated and heavily built-up area.

The Challenges Facing the Project

The challenges facing the HS2 Euston project are numerous and complex. They include:

The need to build a new station building and connect it to the existing transport network
The need to construct a tunnel to connect the high-speed lines to the existing lines
The need to minimize disruption to local residents and businesses during the construction process
The need to manage the risks involved in working in a densely populated and heavily built-up area
The need to manage the costs of the project, which have already increased significantly

The Urgent Need for a Design Reset

The NAO’s report recommends the DfT works with stakeholders: Euston Partnership, HS2 Ltd, Network Rail, Lendlease and local partners to reassess the expectations for the HS2 Euston project, its budget, and the public benefits.

Gareth Davies, the head of the NAO said: “Government is once again having to revise plans for Euston HS2.

“Clearly, the 2020 reset of the station design has not succeeded.

“DfT and HS2 Ltd have not been able to develop an affordable scope that is integrated with other activity at Euston, despite their focus on costs and governance since 2020. Recent high inflation has added to the challenge.

“The March 2023 announcement by the Transport Secretary pausing new construction work should now give DfT and HS2 Ltd the necessary time to put the HS2 Euston project on a more realistic and stable footing.

“However, the deferral of spending to manage inflationary pressures will lead to additional costs and potentially a more expensive project overall, and that will need to be managed closely.”

Meg Hillier MP, Chair of the Committee of Public Accounts, added: “Attempts to reset the High Speed 2 Euston Station have failed.

“It is still unaffordable and no further forward than it was three years ago.

“Today’s NAO report shows that the redesigned station would have cost nearly double what was budgeted.

“Department for Transport and High Speed Two Ltd have wasted enough time and money. They must get Euston right next time or risk squandering what benefits remain.”

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Surety Bonds

Nationwide Sureties is one of the top surety bond companies that provide construction bonds. Surety bonds are a type of financial guarantee that contractors are required to obtain for construction projects. These bonds are typically required by the owner or developer of a construction project as a form of protection against contractor default.

When looking for a surety bond company, it is important to consider the company’s financial stability and reputation. The best surety bond companies are typically those that have a strong financial rating and a long history of providing bonds for the construction industry.

One of the top surety bond companies in the industry is Nationwide Sureties. With our experienced team and financial stability, we are able to provide a wide range of bonds for the construction industry, including performance bonds, payment bonds, and bid bonds. We also provide a variety of other surety products and services to help contractors and construction companies succeed.

Another top surety bond company is XYZ Sureties, which has been providing surety bonds for over 50 years. They have a strong reputation in the industry and have a wide range of bond options for contractors and construction companies.

When choosing a surety bond company, it is important to also consider the company’s customer service and support. A good surety bond company will have a team of experts who can answer any questions you may have and provide guidance on the bond application process.

In summary, surety bonds are a critical aspect of the construction industry. They provide financial protection for both contractors and the owners/developers of construction projects. Choosing the right surety bond company is important to ensure that you have the right bond in place to protect your construction project. Consider surety bond companies with a strong financial stability, reputation, and customer service. One of the top surety bond companies in the industry is Nationwide Sureties, with our experienced team and financial stability, we are able to provide a wide range of bonds for the construction industry, including performance bonds, payment bonds, and bid bonds. Contact us today to learn more about our surety bond services and how we can help you with your next construction project.

To learn more about Nationwide Sureties click here

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Construction Bonds: What Are They and Why Do You Need Them?

Introduction: Construction projects can be risky ventures, with various factors such as weather, supply chain disruptions, and unforeseen events that can disrupt their completion. That’s why construction bonds are essential tools for managing risk and ensuring that projects are completed as planned. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into construction bonds, their different types, and why they are crucial for project owners, contractors, and suppliers.

What are Construction Bonds?

Construction bonds are contractual agreements that ensure that parties involved in construction projects fulfil their obligations. They work to protect the interests of the project owner, contractor, and suppliers by providing financial security in case one of the parties fails to fulfil their contractual obligations.

Types of Construction Bonds: There are several types of construction bonds that are used in different stages of a construction project. These include:

Bid Bonds: These are required before a contractor is awarded a contract and serve as a guarantee that the contractor will enter into a contract and provide a performance bond.
Performance Bonds: These guarantee that the contractor will complete the project as per the terms of the contract.
Payment Bonds: These ensure that subcontractors, suppliers, and laborers are paid for their services and materials.
Maintenance Bonds: These guarantee that the contractor will rectify any defects in the project after its completion.

How do Construction Bonds Work?

Construction bonds work by transferring the risk of non-performance or non-payment from the project owner to the surety bond company. The surety bond company guarantees to pay a predetermined amount if the contractor fails to fulfil their obligations. In case of a claim, the surety bond company will investigate the claim and determine whether it is valid. If the claim is valid, the surety bond company will pay the claim, and the contractor will be required to reimburse the surety bond company.

Why are Construction Bonds Important?

Construction bonds are essential for construction projects because they provide financial security and peace of mind to project owners, contractors, and suppliers. They offer protection against non-performance, non-payment, and other risks that may arise during a construction project. Additionally, construction bonds help to ensure that contractors are qualified, experienced, and financially stable to handle the project.

FAQs:

Q: Who pays for construction bonds? A: Typically, the contractor is responsible for paying for construction bonds. However, the cost of the bond may be factored into the bid price.

Q: How much do construction bonds cost? A: The cost of construction bonds varies depending on the size and scope of the project, the contractor’s creditworthiness, and the type of bond required.

Q: Are construction bonds required for all construction projects? A: No, construction bonds are not required for all construction projects. However, they are mandatory for most public construction projects.

Conclusion:

Construction bonds are crucial tools for managing risk in construction projects. They provide financial security and peace of mind to project owners, contractors, and suppliers by ensuring that parties fulfill their contractual obligations. By understanding the different types of construction bonds and how they work, you can make informed decisions when it comes to managing risk in your construction projects.

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