Insurers and brokers in the construction space will be paying keen interest as the building and construction industry has been called on to ensure all recommended safety procedures are being strictly implemented as the world continues to battle the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

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The message comes from a united group consisting of the Air Conditioning & Mechanical Contractors’ Association, the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union, the Civil Contractors Federation, the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union, the Electrical Trades Union, Master Builders Victoria, Master Plumbers, National Electrical and Communications Association, the Plumbing and Pipe Trades Employees Union, Property Council Victoria, and the Urban Development Institute of Australia.

In a statement, the group strongly urged all employers and employees to dutifully and immediately follow appropriate measures and guidelines developed by employer groups and unions in line with government recommendations, which stipulate strict hygiene practices, social distancing, and separation of workers on meal breaks, among other measures, to ensure sites can be kept safe and stay open.

“The united group has and will continue to follow guidelines from both the national cabinet and Victorian state government, which confirms that stage-two restrictions do not apply to construction sites and electrical and plumbing services – as these are considered essential activities,” the alliance said, as it affirmed its commitment to working with all relevant leadership and government bodies to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their collective memberships and the community.