Georgina Dietrich, a pupil barrister at 3PB, writes about the practical and legal challenges facing those working in the construction sector during the current pandemic.
Read the full article here : Legal and practical challenges of working in the construction industry during the coronavirus outbreak.
In summary; the message in the UK is currently clear – you must stay at home, unless you have one of four reasons: shopping for groceries or essentials; any medical need, which includes providing care or help to a vulnerable person; one form of exercise per day; or travelling to and from work, if it is absolutely necessary and you cannot work from home.
The dilemma you face in the construction industry is that a significant number of people simply cannot work from home and that many workers will not get paid if they do not show up for work. This sector is unusual because of its high proportion of self-employment (36%). Thus far the government has not included this group in its emergency financial measures beyond deferring VAT and income tax payments, and making statutory sick pay available – £94.25 a week, payable from day one (for more information please click here).
Tonight (24 March), First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that building sites should be shut in Scotland, unless they involve an essential building, such as a hospital. In Downing Street Health Secretary Matt Hancock said that construction workers, many of whom work outdoors, could and should continue working, provided they can remain 2 metres apart at all times. Hence, many workers without a financial safety net will feel compelled to leave their homes and continue going to work each morning.
Whether you are a self-employed worker on site, a small or medium sized contractor, or a main contractor, Covid-19 has and will continue to impact the industry you operate in. This information bulletin looks at some of the legal and practical challenges and solutions you may wish to consider during these testing times, such as:
Read the full article here: Legal and practical challenges of working in the construction industry during the coronavirus outbreak.
Find out more about 3PB's construction barristers here.
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