Construction continues to be the highest-risk industry in the UK. Although employing only around 7% of the workforce, it consistently accounts for nearly 30% of all fatal workplace injuries each year, according to the HSE.
With fast-paced, physically demanding work, multiple trades on-site, and constantly changing environments, even super-experienced teams aren’t in the clear when it comes to construction’s inherent risks. That’s why structured, ongoing site safety training isn’t just good practice. It’s the foundation of every safe, efficient, and high-performing construction project (and, of course, needed for legal compliance).
According to the HSE, the most common construction-related fatalities have been from falls from height, being struck by moving objects, or being trapped by collapsing structures. Thousands more suffer serious, life-changing injuries each year. Why, you ask? Well, while every construction site is unique, the hazards that workers regularly face include:
These risks are amplified by the dynamic nature of construction sites – constantly changing environments, multiple contractors working simultaneously, and intense pressure to meet deadlines. Add in fatigue, communication breakdowns, and varying levels of experience, and even small lapses in judgment can have severe consequences.
That’s why high-quality, results-focused safety training isn’t optional – it’s essential. It gives workers the awareness and confidence to spot hazards early, take proactive action, and make safety an everyday habit rather than a reaction after something goes wrong.
Employers have a clear duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to provide adequate information, instruction, and training to everyone on-site, including subcontractors and agency workers.
This is reinforced by:
Failing to meet any of these health and safety regulations and requirements can result in prosecution, site shutdowns, lost contracts, and, most importantly, preventable harm to workers.
Comprehensive safety training goes far beyond compliance – it builds confidence, competence, and accountability. A strong programme for health and safety on construction sites should combine general awareness with job-specific instruction.
At KeyOstas, our construction-related courses are designed to meet real-world site challenges, including:
A vital starting point for anyone working in construction, this Level 1 QCF-equivalent course provides the health, safety and environmental foundation required for a CSCS Labourers Green Card. Our in-company training covers modules like organising for safety, hazards specific to construction (working at height, asbestos, confined spaces), safe use of plant and equipment, health risks, and environmental awareness.
Perfect for first-line managers and supervisors who need to understand their responsibilities for site safety, risk assessments, and toolbox talks. Over two days, this H&S course covers legal duties, site set-up, behavioural safety, personal protective equipment and environmental management. All of this aims to empower supervisors in creating safer, more efficient sites.
A one-day update course that keeps experienced supervisors compliant with current legislation and HSE guidance. It refreshes key topics such as leadership in safety culture, occupational health awareness, and effective incident reporting – so that nothing slips through the cracks.
For organisations that want to tailor their training to specific risks or working environments, our in-company courses offer a ton of flexibility and can be taken on-site or online. We have a huge selection of courses, from COSHH and Fire Safety to Risk Assessment, Permit to Work, and Working at Height. Each health and safety awareness session can be adapted to reflect your policies, procedures, and practical realities – delivering measurable results and genuine behavioural change.
Safety training shouldn’t be a one-off event, especially not in the construction industry. Regular refreshers and updates following procedural or equipment changes ensure your workforce remains alert, informed, and compliant.
When health and safety become part of your work culture, the benefits are clear:
Consistent training helps your organisation go far beyond health and safety legislation, improving systems across the board.
A Midlands-based contractor recently partnered with KeyOstas after a series of near-misses involving mobile plant and site logistics. By delivering tailored refresher sessions for supervisors and operatives, including manual handling and vehicle movement training, the company achieved:
The result wasn’t just compliance with health and safety requirements – it was a safer, more cohesive workforce and better client feedback during audits.
KeyOstas is a national leader in health and safety training and consultancy, setting the standard for workplace safety since 1984. With over four decades of experience and a proven track record, we combine deep industry expertise with practical, real-world solutions, helping organisations of all sizes achieve safer, more efficient operations.
Our tutors aren’t just trainers – they’re the seasoned professionals you’d trust on site, with extensive construction and site management experience. Every course is tailored to reflect actual job roles, site health and safety risks, and operational challenges, ensuring learning is relevant, practical, and immediately applicable.
We offer:
With KeyOstas, safety training isn’t simply about legal compliance. Our globally recognised courses are a strategic investment in your people, your projects, and your organisation’s long-term success.
But we don’t stop at training. The UK construction industry is subject to a complex web of health and safety regulations, and we understand that your primary focus should be on delivering projects safely and efficiently. That’s why KeyOstas also offers expert consultancy services.
Whether you need a thorough risk assessment, help in implementing robust safety management systems, or policy development assistance, our consultancy ensures your business operates safely, confidently, and in line with best practice – giving you peace of mind and freeing you to focus on what you do best.
Whether you’re a principal contractor, site supervisor, or managing a small subcontracting team, effective training is the foundation of safe, efficient site delivery.
Investing in your team’s safety knowledge means fewer accidents, higher productivity, and greater peace of mind – both on and off-site.
Explore our full range of Health & Safety Training Courses or contact KeyOstas at +44 (0) 3300 569534 today to build a training plan tailored to your site and workforce.
