5 Factors to Consider When Providing Welfare Units on Large Construction Projects

The opportunity to build a home can be a dream come true, but constructing a house from scratch can be challenging and hazardous. When driving or walking past building sites, it’s easy to be unaware of the harsh conditions the workforce has to work in.  

Welfare facilities provided to employees in the construction industry are crucial, given the risky nature of the workplace and long hours. In the last five years, construction-related deaths in Great Britain have been recorded at 42, almost double the other high-risk sectors like agriculture, fishing and forestry, which stands at 24.

Non-fatal injuries have also been on the rise, and while these might not be life-threatening, they adversely impact worker’s overall health and productivity. The construction industry recorded a non-fatal injury rate of 2,640 per 100,000 workers in 2022/23 data.

To prevent accidents and fatalities in large construction projects, and promote employee well-being, contractors can take steps to provide welfare unit trailers. These trailers improve the working conditions, increase safety, and enhance the general mood at the construction site.

This article will examine five important factors in setting up a construction welfare unit on a large site. 

Legal Compliance 

Having a welfare unit trailer is not just an ethical requirement but also a matter of legal compliance. The government’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) directive states that commercial clients and contractors must provide workers with toilet access and washing, changing, and resting facilities. 

Schedule 2 of Construction Design and Management (CDM) Regulations 2015 states that the type and number of such welfare facilities will depend on the construction site's size and type of work taking place. Some welfare facilities provided to employees might also need shower facilities if workers are exposed to materials like cement or lead. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 also states general laws and provisions to maintain the safety of workers. 

The authorities will heavily penalise contractors failing to comply with these requirements.

Welfare to Worker Ratio 

So, how many building site welfare units are enough for one project? The number will depend on the construction site's size and how many workers are employed. Assessing the size of the site is a good way to determine how many construction welfare units are needed. 

If the site is large, some units must be placed in remote locations so workers don’t need to travel a long distance to access basic welfare facilities like washrooms or drinking water. There must be provisions for welfare facilities provided to employees in common areas like near the entrance/exit, central compound, or canteen/eating area. 

Another key consideration is the flexibility to decrease or increase the number of the building site welfare units depending on the number of workers at any given time.

Project Duration

The number of welfare unit trailers necessary also depends on the project’s duration. Suppose the project is estimated to take a long time to complete, such as building a large block of flats, you should consider setting up more scattered units. This will enable your workers to access a rest area during strenuous workdays.

You can choose fewer trailers for shorter projects or ‘moveable projects’ like road construction. This is because the construction site will keep moving from one place to another, and the number of workers will be less than that of a static project. Thus, moving the construction welfare unit as the project progresses will be easier.

Worker Count 

Should you select a 6-person welfare unit or a 16-person unit with an office? This decision will be based on the number of workers employed at your site. 

You could have a smaller welfare unit located in the far corner, due to the fact it will be accessed by fewer workers. However, in the more central areas, like near the administrative section, having larger units with dedicated office spaces will ensure smooth accessibility. 

Project managers, owners, and other officials often use these building site welfare units also. An office space will enable them to hold meetings and discussions without being disturbed. 

Health and Safety

Another key consideration when setting up welfare facilities provided to employees is the health and safety of workers. Construction sites require adequate facilities for workers to change clothes, take a break, and more. 

Workers in labour-intensive industries like construction need regular breaks to relax and rejuvenate, to prevent accidents. A designated area equipped with amenities, such as a microwave, kettle and sink is crucial for guaranteeing the well-being of workers. 

Having access to toilets also ensures the worker’s hygiene levels are maintained. These welfare units with toilet facilities must be placed at regular intervals in larger sites, enabling easy access. Construction managers must also discuss proper and regular waste disposal with the welfare unit provider. 

Welfare trailers offering heating facilities can be especially beneficial during the winter. With the UK’s unpredictable weather and regular downpours, a heated rest area offers protection from the weather and keeps staff warm. 

Contact Hireforce to Set Up a Welfare Unit Trailer on Your Site

Setting up welfare units for employees at large construction sites ensures worker safety and well-being. These units offer a safe place for workers and managers to take breaks between shifts and access fresh water and refreshments.