The Covid-19 lockdown came at a particularly crucial time for one of our clients, whose site was scheduled for Practical Completion in March 2020. Due to the climate, PC was placed on hold, yet GUK were able to work alongside the client to prepare them for mobilisation when the time came.
We had a site manager in place long before PC was expected, which gave us time to prepare and plan effectively. We also recruited three supervisors before lockdown, who were then trained in the expectations on-site, and via courses like IOSH and our Customer Service Excellence Programme.
Over lockdown, we continued to recruit for the other roles on site to ensure we were ready as soon as PC was announced, via email, telephone and video interviews. And by scheduling weekly video meetings with the development team and the principle contractors, we were always up to speed with progress on-site.
When PC was given for the 22nd May, our challenge was to create a robust approach to the government’s safe working and social distancing guidelines. We ordered barriers, Correx sheeting and hand sanitisers, and designed and installed signage and safety screens. We also created new induction processes for all on-site contractors, as well as time allocations to control their entrance to the site.
To manage the new procedures and ensure efficient staffing levels, GUK increased core manning levels. By adapting to our client’s needs and maintaining constant communication throughout, we were able to prepare them for a smooth transition during an extremely challenging time.