A course teaching construction professionals how to work safely in this environment has been launched by Green Hat Consulting and construction specialist Sphere Solutions.

CovCert is an online programme designed to provide employees with an understanding of how to work safely.

Construction sites can be particularly complex environments to work in and to safely manage, given the number of different contractors and tradespeople that can be on site at any given time.

Andrew Warring, managing director of Green Hat Consulting, said: “CovCert is aimed at employees who are returning to work on construction sites.

“The courses are intended to raise COVID-19 awareness and provide employees with the knowledge required to minimise the risk of transmission and infection within the workplace, as well as providing an induction for new employees and informing on up to date guidance.”

CovCert has three course options, covering different staff responsibility levels. Employees, supervisors and appointed safety representatives can each undertake accreditation, which can also be used as part of annual CPD requirements.

The course, depending on the one being taken, will take between one and two hours to complete through online delivery and assessment.

James Hughes, managing director of Sphere Solutions said: “Following the lifting of some lockdown measures, it is encouraging to see a steady return to work for many construction companies and their workforces across the country.

“We are optimistic this will increase further in the coming months, and with the rising volume of personnel on site, it becomes increasingly important for workers and site managers to be aware of the dangers of COVID-19 and the measures required to control it, in line with government guidance.”