Firm sees rise in training demand

THE robust growth of parts of the construction industry since Covid restrictions were lifted has prompted a growing number of firms to invest in training and accreditations as they try to stay ahead of the competition.

That is according to Coregenic, a specialist health and safety consultancy based in Neath, which serves companies across the UK.

The business has enjoyed rapid growth in the past 12 months, but its founder has noted a lot more firms investing in upselling their staff and enhancing their processes. In recent weeks, it has helped three Walesbased companies linked to the construction sector secure an ISO accreditation linked to quality (ISO 9001:2015), occupational health and safety (ISO 45001:2015) and environmental (ISO 14001:2015) factors.

Managing director Cherie Coughlan said while clients’ exact motivations vary, there is a definite sense in companies that following the Covid outbreak and its subsequent impact on society, such investments are needed to win certain contracts and types of work.

Undertaking this type of analysis means the implemented management system helps streamline business processes and identifies opportunities for cost reduction. Companies have also seen improved quality of service and consumer experience following the process being implemented, and for some has resulted in repeat business.

She said: “We have seen a lot more demand for a number of types of training but also specific accreditations since Covid restrictions have eased. Clients are telling us that this is a period of opportunity, given the backlog of work and projects created by lockdowns. They want to take advantage of this but also realise that competition to win tenders is intense. We are happy to help companies in Wales gain these important skills and win more business, advancing the local economy in the process. This is not limited to just the construction industry. We can help businesses in any sector through the same process.”