Construction National

Magazine, Online Directory and Web Design Service

Sat13122025

Last updateMon, 17 Nov 2025 1pm

New research strengthens case against cutting corners on EV charging safety

New research on behalf of the Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) has confirmed that projected demand for electric vehicle charge points (EVCPs) can be readily accommodated by the UK’s workforce of fully qualified electricians. These findings further strengthen the case against use of non-qualified and under-qualified personnel to undertake this safety-critical work.

Read more: New research strengthens case against cutting corners on EV charging safety

CHAS Common Assessment Standard becomes commonplace

IanMCHAS Managing Director Ian McKinnon outlines how adoption of the Common Assessment Standard has gathered pace since its rollout began in 2019 with multiple major contractors now specifying the scheme and explains why now is the time for contractors who haven't yet taken the assessment to embrace the scheme.

Read more: CHAS Common Assessment Standard becomes commonplace

ASFP to offer three new member benefits in conjunction with BSI

BSI Standards Square 002The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has signed a series of agreements with the British Standards Institution (BSI), the national standards body of the UK. Under the agreements, the ASFP is able to offer British standards for sale at discounted rates to members, free standards to small to medium size enterprise (SME) members and free onboarding to theBSI’s new Identify Scheme. 

Read more: ASFP to offer three new member benefits in conjunction with BSI

Construction firm goes elite

0n6794A northeast construction firm has achieved a top industry health and safety accreditation. Teesside-based WOODSmith Construction Group, which forms part of The SDDE Smith Group, has been awarded the highest level of CHAS accreditation – Elite – demonstrating its commitment to maintaining excellent standards.

CHAS – The Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme – is one of the most recognised safety schemes in the construction industry and allows businesses to show their compliance and commitment to health and safety.

Read more: Construction firm goes elite

Students secure apprenticeships after highly successful local work placements

0n6795Two students from New City College's Construction & Engineering Centre in Rainham have recently become the first to secure an apprenticeship with the Breyer Group – thanks to a fantastic partnership with a former student.

The students, who were studying the Level 3 BTEC Construction & the Built Environment course, were offered the opportunity of an industry work placement that led to the apprenticeship, thanks to ex-student Dan Williamson, who is now Breyer’s Commercial Manager.

Read more: Students secure apprenticeships after highly successful local work placements