Countries across Europe are experiencing a second wave of COVID-19. With cases going up, there is the risk of having a second economic lockdown. Here are some ways construction firms can prepare for the second wave of COVID-19 to ensure that their workers and business remains protected:
Implement stringent safety measures and ensure a hygienic workplace
One of the most critical elements is to ensure that the workplace is hygienic and relevant safety measures are being implemented daily. This is essential as the people and communities you work for need to be protected. Furthermore, in the event of any employee falling sick, due to the lack of protective measures, the industry may be perceived as an ‘at risk’, making it difficult to continue working. The safer your team and employees are, the more productive your company will be. So keep that in mind and make sure that the right precautionary measures are implemented relentlessly.
Encourage workers to collaborate with a partner.
Working in pairs and with partners can help increase productivity. Especially in the instance of a second wave, people may be more reluctant to work together in large groups to increase productivity. Construction companies can take the right measures from the outset to combat this and ensure that employees are productive.
Companies should also be speaking to their suppliers and clients with regards to the second wave and coming to agreements on how to tackle it. If not agreed in advance, it could lead to agreed contractual agreements being reversed, leading to substantial commercial risks.
Proactively address fatigue and mental health.
The pandemic has taken a toll on everyone mentally and physically. With the re-opening and closing of sites, social distancing measures, working with masks and with a reduced workforce – many teams across the industry are feeling the fatigue and stress rise.
With the threat of a second wave looming, companies should ensure that the physical and mental wellbeing of their employees is taken care of. Taking proactive measures to address these issues will be beneficial in boosting productivity and keeping team spirits high.
Develop contingency plans for local lockdowns
With the threat of the second wave, companies need to plan and develop plans to deal with local lockdowns. This will include going over existing projects and deadlines, evaluating risk and figuring out the right way to deal with it. The focus must be on planning and addressing these issues in advance so that it does not affect functioning in case of a local lockdown.
Continually measure supply chain performance
Over the last months, many supply chains have been disrupted due to lockdowns, shutting of borders and various other shocks. With the threat of the second wave, many borders are being heavily controlled and even closed. Companies should continually measure their supply chain performance, especially those critical to project delivery. This way, they are prepared in case of problems and delays of any kind.
In line with our company ethos and despite continued uncertainty and unpredictability caused by the Covid 19 pandemic, Mydek have established multiple production lines across Europe and the UK. Our production lines have multiple capabilities and processes which maximise flexibility and scalability for production to ensure that we can continue to supply product to meet industry demand.. All our production lines work to the same demanding quality standards and have robust social distancing and hygiene measures in place to ensure the health and wellbeing of our workforce.
Ensure programs are up to date and resilient
To ensure that all deadlines are met on time, companies need to plan ahead of time. These plans are usually made on assumptions; hence companies need to ensure that their plans are altered according to the changing situations. It is essential for companies to review the contingency plans, programme by programme continuously.
Companies need to plan for six to eight weeks in advance, keeping in mind the current scenario. Potential risks must be considered and analysed, and suitable solutions must be developed to combat these risky situations. These proactive measures will keep the teams prepared in case of any problems that may arise. This will also help in the smooth sailing of projects and satisfy the company to meet deadlines.
If you want to speak to a member of our team about your supply of non-combustible decking solutions, reach out to us on 03300 94 94 11
If your project is in the early stages, our team provide scheme options and calculations for review. Contact our technical team on 03300 94 94 11