The additional and industry specific measures to deal with the threat of Covid-19 include a monitoring system, improved access to sites for union representatives, alternative work patterns and temperature testing of workers.
According to SIPTU Construction Sector Organiser, John Regan, the agreement provides for additional safety and health protection measures to those already agreed between employers and trade unions over recent weeks.
“These measures are based on the principle of ‘prevention first’, the speedy correction of non-compliance and the closure of sites if the safety of workers is not ensured. If it cannot be done safely, it should not be done at all,” he said.
The Assistant General Secretary of Connect, Brian Nolan said: “Construction workers and their families need the assurances about their safety contained in this agreement as they return to work. The issue should not be used as a political football.”
The General Secretary of BATU, Brendan O’Sullivan said: “This agreement gives unionised workers a way to highlight unsafe practices without fear of victimisation. Construction workers need to play a role on each site as safety representatives and if they are not yet union members, they should join today.”
The Agreement between the TUF and the CIF was signed today at the Connect offices in Dublin.