Construction Better Health is the industry-backed occupational health scheme for the construction sector.
Following a successful regional pilot and a subsequent period of industry consultation, in August 2007 CBH has become an operational entity to deliver the national occupational health scheme. UCATT has been an active supporter of the scheme, and General Secretary Alan Ritchie is a member of CBH’s board.
CBH has several concrete aims, which include
· the setting of Industry Standards for work related health issues and competency of occupational health providers,
· building a construction specific knowledge portal, giving advice, guidance and support in the management of health related risks
In October 2007 CBH published the scheme’s Occupational Health Standards. The purpose of the standards is to provide key stakeholders with a best practice guide for work-place health and fitness for work requirements in the construction industry. In February 2008 CBH released its Standards for Occupational Health Service Providers. The purpose of these standards is to set a benchmark for occupational health service providers working in the construction industry and to provide guidance on clinical information.
In summer 2008 CBH has opened for business. As short-term aim it will approach safety-critical workers, major projects and large ‘top end’ contractors. Several large contractors have already committed to implement the scheme from its launch date. Approaching SME’s, self-employed workers and micros will be the medium term and continuous target of the scheme.
Future plans of CBH include web access to an online search and booking facility for health surveillance and ‘fit for task’ health checks for safety critical workers.
For more information please go to the website at www.constructingbetterhealth.co.uk