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How the Recent CITB Changes Will Affect Construction Businesses

Recent CITB funding changes will significantly reshape how construction businesses plan and pay for training. With reduced short course grants and a shift toward Employer Networks, companies will need stronger workforce planning, clearer budgeting and a more strategic approach to skills development. Those who prepare early and prioritise apprenticeships are likely to adapt most successfully.

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Digital Waste Tracking Is Coming. What Construction Subcontractors Need to Know

Digital waste tracking will soon become the standard across the UK construction sector. Subcontractors will need accurate waste data, compliant partners and stronger digital processes to stay on the right side of regulation. Preparing early will reduce disruption, strengthen compliance, and support smoother project delivery as oversight increases.

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Safe Working in Adverse Weather on Construction Sites

Adverse weather is a predictable risk on construction sites. When it’s properly planned for and managed, it reduces incidents, protects workers, and ensures safety standards remain strong, no matter the conditions

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The Real Benefits of Reporting Near Misses

Near misses are early warning signs of serious accidents. When they’re reported and acted on properly, they help identify risks early, strengthen safety culture, and prevent harm before it happens.

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International Day of Clean Energy: Turning Awareness into Action

This week marked International Day of Clean Energy, a reminder that cleaner energy isn’t just good for the planet, it’s good for business. From energy audits to renewables and efficiency upgrades, small actions can lead to big savings and a lower carbon footprint.

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A Simple Reminder: PPE on Site Saves Lives

PPE is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe on site, but only if it’s worn correctly and consistently. This blog is a reminder of why PPE matters, the responsibilities of both employers and workers, and how small habits can make a big difference to safety, compliance, and site culture.

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Simplifying Training Compliance for Your Business

Keeping training records up to date doesn’t have to be time-consuming or stressful. Our new Training Matrix Management service takes care of tracking expiry dates, managing records, and supporting compliance — helping businesses reduce admin time and stay compliant with confidence.

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Small steps, big impact: supporting biodiversity on site

Small actions can make a big difference for biodiversity. Simple, low-cost steps on site can support local wildlife, boost staff wellbeing, and show clients and partners that your business is committed to a more sustainable future.

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Safe Start After Christmas and New Year

Happy New Year! We hope everyone had a lovely and safe Christmas break. This blog highlights the key steps construction sites should take to ensure a safe and controlled return to work after Christmas and New Year, helping to manage changed site conditions, winter risks, and workforce wellbeing.

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Green Skills Training: Upskilling for a Low-Carbon Future

As the construction industry moves towards a low-carbon future, green skills are becoming essential across the supply chain. This blog explores the importance of environmental competence, the role of the Supply Chain Sustainability School, and how Environmental Awareness training can help prepare subcontractors for future requirements such as carbon reporting and circular economy practices.

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Improving Environmental Performance Through Toolbox Talks

Environmental toolbox talks are a simple and effective way to raise awareness and improve environmental performance on site. This blog explains why brief, practical sessions matter and highlights key topics such as waste management, spill response, biodiversity protection, anti-idling, noise control, and good housekeeping.

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Water Conservation on Construction Sites

Water conservation plays a vital role in reducing environmental impact and supporting sustainable construction practices. This blog outlines practical steps construction sites can take to minimise water waste, including leak reporting, efficient water use, safe reuse, dust control alternatives, runoff prevention, and supporting main contractor water monitoring systems.

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Closing Construction Sites Safely for the Christmas Period

The Christmas period can present increased safety and security risks on construction sites, whether they are closing temporarily or continuing to operate. This blog outlines key steps for safely shutting down sites over the festive break, along with practical safety tips for teams working during the holiday period, helping duty holders remain compliant and protect workers, the public, and the site.

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Upcoming January & February Training Courses

This January and February, Combined Safety Solutions is delivering Mental Health First Aider and Manual Handling training courses in Hadleigh, Ipswich and Canterbury. These practical, instructor-led courses are designed to support employee wellbeing, improve workplace safety, and help organisations meet their health and safety responsibilities.

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Key Environmental Legislation in the Construction Sector

Construction impacts the environment, so managing waste, materials, and site activities responsibly is essential. The Environmental Protection Act 1990 and Environment Act 2021 set clear rules on preventing pollution, using licensed waste carriers, keeping proper documentation, and improving resource efficiency. Today, sustainability isn’t optional construction teams must show real compliance, protect the environment, and continually reduce their impact.

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