Blog

12 Oct

UK Roofing Industry Votes to Raise Standards

Delegates at a conference set up by the newly-formed National Construction Training Services (NCTS) have banded together in a pledge to improve industry standards.

These groups and individuals have confirmed support for a new Roofing Sector Assessment Infrastructure and Sustainability Plan. This plan can be seen as a counteraction against negative impacts on the UK’s roofing industry.

Concern has been growing that assessors will soon become in short supply throughout the UK. The imminent withdrawal of CRO CSCS Cards is expected to cause a massive surge in the number of roofers who require new qualifications.

Without adequate assessment capabilities, the UK’s roofing industry – which grew by 7% last year – may stagnate as standards slip.

The conference’s delegates were made up of leading roofing figures, including trade federation officials, groups and manufacturers. This affirmative action by major industry players shows a widespread willingness to safeguard jobs and production in UK roofing.

In a recent article, RCI Magazine said the move was ‘designed to support contractors and raise standards in every sector of the roofing business.’

National Construction Training Services Ltd has also pledged to launch an awareness-building campaign of its own prior to the opening of its new training facilities.

The construction industry training centre is scheduled to open next year, but those searching for roofing training can visit NCTS’s website in the meantime.

NCTS’s MD, Phillip Fergusson, told RCI Magazine:

“I am delighted that the NCTS is now acting as the catalyst to bring together all sectors of the industry to address these problems and get the funding we need. We, in turn, shall be working with all the trade federations, roofing training groups, contractors, manufacturers, other training centres and individuals to deliver those skills.”

At JRC Slate, we’re delighted that the industry has banded together to address upcoming concerns for the benefit of all.

With proper funding and training schemes in place, we hope that the profile of UK roofing and its assessment standards can maintain its position at the forefront of international construction.