92% of construction professionals across the world expect their business to survive the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a survey by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)
The survey was taken by more than 500 construction professionals from Australia, Canada, China, Ireland, Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United Kingdom and the USA.
56% of survey respondents said their organisations were keeping all or some sites open. While 76% said their employees were able to observe social distancing on their way into work, and 84% said they were able to observe social distancing onsite.
Optimistic outlook
Caroline Gumble, chief executive of the CIOB, said: “Firstly, many thanks to everyone who completed our survey. It’s a busy time for most people in our industry so the responses are much appreciated.
“Secondly, it’s good to hear that there is so much activity getting underway and much hope and positivity in the industry.
“While it was necessary for some sites to temporarily close their doors, we are glad to see that the majority of construction workers are optimistic in their outlook and are able to maintain a safe environment whilst working.
“However, we want to remind everyone that it is imperative to stay safe and follow the appropriate guidelines, including, for the UK, the latest CLC Site Operating Procedures.”
Figure breakdown
Most of the construction professionals worked for larger companies, with nearly 48.8% working for companies employing more than 500 people. Of those, 37.3% work for companies employing more than 1,000 people.
In terms of employer organisations, 37.4% were main contractors. The main types of other employers were project manager/QS (14.2%), public-sector client (10.9%), consulting engineer (10.4%), private-sector client (9%) and specialist contractor (5.7%).
The survey also revealed that 44% of construction professionals had volunteered to help people in their community, such as shopping for the elderly, 42% have volunteered to support essential workers and 36% have donated personal protective equipment (PPE) to front-line health and social care workers.
