Construction workers are typically more independent than other kinds of employees. As a result, they need to be hired and managed differently to be successful. Here are some tips for doing that.
Check if they are certified.
There are many different types of construction crews out there. Some are made up of certified professionals, while others are not. However, when hiring a construction crew, you want to ensure you’re getting the best. You want a team that has been properly trained and knows how to get the job done right. That’s why it’s best to prioritize hiring certified workers.
One of the benefits of working with a certified construction crew is that you can be sure they have received formal training. Certification programs ensure that everyone on the team knows how to safely and effectively do their job. This allows you to avoid potential accidents and injury on site, which could cost you a lot of money in the long run.
Another reason why it’s important to hire certified construction crews is that they tend to be more productive than those who are not certified. This is because they don’t need to stop and ask for clarification as often because they understand their roles and responsibilities on-site. As a result, work tends to progress more quickly when everyone knows what they’re supposed to do.
Ensure they stay certified.
Did you know that some certification tests require workers to re-take them every few years?
For example, workers are required to take the CITB test every five years to maintain their CSCS card. The CITB test is an industry-specific competence test that all workers must take before they begin working on a construction site. The test covers various topics, from health and safety to technical knowledge. Construction workers must pass the CITB test in order to get a CSCS card, which is required for access to most construction sites.
It’s necessary to ensure your workers stay certified because an expired certification is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a safety hazard. Construction sites are already dangerous enough without adding in the risk of working with someone who doesn’t have up-to-date skills. Out-of-date certifications could lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.
In addition to being a safety hazard, an expired certification can also lead to legal consequences. If there’s an accident on the job site and it’s discovered that one of your workers was operating with an out-of-date certification, you could be held liable. That’s why it’s so important to keep track of your workers’ certification expiration dates and make sure they’re renewing them on time. Not only will it keep everyone safe, but it will also protect you from potential legal trouble down the road.
Fortunately, while getting workers to take the test was a challenge in the past as it meant coordinating schedules and taking time off from work, new online testing options have made it possible for workers to take the test at their convenience without having to take time off from work. Also, some test centers now offer CITB test group bookings, which allow companies to coordinate their workers’ schedules so that they can all take the test at once, saving time and resources.
Do a trial run.
A trial period is when you have someone come in and work with your team for a set duration, usually 1-2 weeks, to see how they mesh with the rest of the crew. This is a great way to get a sense of someone’s work ethic, attitude, and skillset before making a decision about whether or not they’re a good fit for your team.
Before the trial starts, sit down with your new hires and explain what the trial period will entail. Let them know what is expected of them and what you’ll be looking for during this time. It’s important that everyone is clear on the expectations from the start.
Also, don’t wait until the end of the trial period to give constructive feedback to your new hires. If you see something that needs to be improved upon, let them know right away so that they can make the necessary changes. Likewise, if you see something that they’re doing well, be sure to give them positive reinforcement so that they know they’re on the right track.
It’s also important to remember that not everyone is going to be perfect, and that’s okay! Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, so use this trial period as an opportunity to see where your new hires shine and where they may need some improvement. Try not to write anyone off too quickly; give them a chance to show what they’re really made of.
When dealing with construction employees, remember to check if they are certified and ensure that they stay certified. Also, don’t be afraid to test things out with a trial run. By following these tips, businesses can set themselves up for success when hiring and managing construction workers.