Victaulic highlights solutions to labour shortages in UK and EU construction

Labour shortages in construction industry

As noted by Victaulic, the construction sector is facing significant challenges related to workforce shortages.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) in the UK reported that, as of May 2024, 21% of businesses with 10 or more employees were experiencing labour shortages, including in construction.

Similarly, the Construction Skills Network (CSN) projects a demand for an additional 251,000 construction workers in the UK by 2028.

Across the EU, the European Employment Services Network (EURES) highlighted that construction had the fourth-highest job vacancy rate in Q2 2023, with this rate rising faster than in any other sector since 2016.

Addressing challenges with innovative product design

Victaulic emphasises the importance of simplifying installation processes to address labour shortages and skill gaps.

The company’s Installation-Ready technology is designed to streamline work by reducing complexity and minimising errors.

These products arrive ready to be installed without requiring disassembly, improving efficiency and reliability.

Victaulic reports that its grooved sprinklers and couplings enable quicker and more accurate installations, even with less experienced crews, providing contractors with greater control over labour costs and timelines.

Role of training in improving workforce readiness

Victaulic also emphasises the value of manufacturer-led training in mitigating labour risks.

The company’s training programmes aim to equip workers with the skills required to handle specialised products, such as couplings, sprinklers, and valves.

During training sessions, topics include pipe grooving, alarm valve servicing, and installation techniques, ensuring workers are well-prepared for site demands.

Victaulic suggests that having at least one certified team member on-site can enhance project reliability and support other team members.

Combining innovation with workforce development

Victaulic continues to invest in both product innovation and workforce development to help the construction sector navigate ongoing labour challenges.

The company states that its goal is to reduce time and costs associated with installations while ensuring proper training for end users.

By aligning product design with training standards, Victaulic aims to address workforce shortages and support contractors in delivering efficient, reliable systems.

Victaulic addresses labour shortages in UK and EU construction: summary

Victaulic has highlighted solutions to labour shortages in the UK and EU construction industries.

The company’s Installation-Ready products simplify installations, reducing errors and increasing efficiency, even for less experienced workers.

In addition to innovative product design, Victaulic offers training programmes to equip workers with the skills necessary to handle specialised systems.

These efforts aim to address the challenges posed by labour shortages while enhancing reliability and cost control for contractors.