Industry news
initiative for the industry.
“ Research suggests that around 26 % of the manual construction workforce experiences some form of hearing-related condition.
“ We need to ensure deaf awareness training becomes more widely available so that those struggling with hearing impairments in construction feel safe and supported at work, and those around them can recognise the challenges they face.
“ The construction industry needs to recruit 41,200 extra workers each year for the next five years to meet demand, and training such as this will help to remove barriers to entry for those who may have previous felt they would not be able to work in construction.”
Training targets construction noise risks An estimated 328,000 construction workers are living with hearing impairments or tinnitus, while three in four construction workers are exposed to hazardous noise levels.
The programme aims to address the impact of hearing loss on construction sites, including communication, workplace safety, productivity and inclusion.
The training is being developed around lived experience, behavioural science, health and safety expertise and construction industry knowledge.
It will comprise eight free training modules covering individuals, managers, employers and construction organisations.
The modules will combine interactive e-learning with subtitled and British Sign Language-supported videos, as well as knowledge checks.
Participants will learn about different types and causes of hearing loss, the challenges faced by deaf and hard of hearing colleagues, and communication techniques that can improve safety and collaboration.
The programme will also cover psychologically safe workplaces, as well as recruitment, onboarding and retention practices for deaf workers.
Vanessa Freeman, Head of Grant and Funding Products at CITB, said:“ We’ re really pleased to be supporting such an important
Pilot programme to launch in 2027
Teri Devine, Associate Director of Inclusion and Employment at RNID, said:“ We are delighted to see the construction industry taking proactive steps to increase awareness of hearing loss.
“ 18 million people in the UK are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus, so building understanding of these issues is vital in the workplace.
“ Not only do initiatives like this help facilitate safer environments, but greater awareness can support early intervention and foster more inclusive and psychologically safe places of work, so everyone has the opportunity to succeed in their career.”
Mark Ainsworth, Executive Director of Operations at Bovis, said:“ Too many people across our sector are living with hearing loss, tinnitus or other hearing-related conditions. By supporting this training initiative, we are helping to raise awareness of the risks associated with excessive noise exposure and equipping people with the knowledge needed to better protect themselves and their colleagues.
“ But this is about more than prevention. It is also about encouraging our industry to adapt workplaces and behaviours to better support those affected by hearing loss, creating a more inclusive and psychologically safe environment for people already working in construction and for those considering a career in the sector. Bovis is proud to support this important programme and the positive difference it can make across our industry.”
The training is currently under development, with pilot delivery due to launch in 2027. It will be available free of charge through CITB.
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