Build UK has revealed new guidelines on colour coded hard hats for construction workers.

The Safety Helmet Colours and Training Standards was drafted in consultation with members to "develop best practice and ensure the effective delivery of construction projects across the UK".

The standard uses simple colour coding to identify on-site personnel. Site supervisors will wear black helmets, while Slinger/Signallers will wear orange.

Site managers will be in white and most workers will wear blue helmets. Trained first aiders and fire marshals will have stickers on their helmets.


Overall, the new standard will help contractors "assess the competence of construction workers, along with their eligibility to work on-site".

It was developed in response to recommendations from the Construction Leadership Council to specify and promote card schemes carrying the CSCS logo.

Julie White, Chairman of the Training and Skills Leadership Group, said: "We’ve had some great, open discussion at our Build UK member forums and it’s fantastic to see the new industry standards taking shape. Both the Safety Helmet and Training Standards provide clear and practical help for everyone working on-site, showing that by improving our working relationships and using our collective voice, we can make a real difference to the industry."

Suzannah Nichol MBE, Chief Executive of Build UK, added: "Health and safety is a priority for Build UK and we are delighted with the positive response from our members who have welcomed the latest standards, which aim to make life easier and help them meet the increasing demands of working on-site."

(LM)