The flexible working initiative, which will be rolled out to contractors in the summer of this year, is designed to develop benefits and implementation methods for flexible working practices within site operations.

FPS Chair Steve Hadley said the initiative could improve employee wellbeing without impacting productivity.

He said: “The coronavirus pandemic has seen many of us working more flexibly and aspects of this type of working look set to continue, in hybrid-form, as employers recognise the benefits flexible working bring to employees.

“Site working, unlike office-based roles, however, has typically been excluded from such ‘flexible practices’ due to the demands and hours of work – real or perceived – and the FPS would like to explore ways this can be overcome to widen the benefits to all.

“The construction sector is already struggling to attract and retain staff as well as encourage a more diverse workforce, with working hours and the lack of flexibility often cited as a prime reason.  

“The ‘Flexible Working Initiative’ should help tackle the perceived difficulties surrounding flexible working and site work, and hopefully bring about a revolution in working practices for the good of everyone.”

Melissa Jamieson, CEO of flexible working specialist Timewise, said: “We are delighted to partner with the FPS to deliver workshops and training on flexible working for its members.

“The FPS identified that the lack of flexible working in the industry has created structural barriers to attracting, retaining and progressing a more diverse workforce, specifically in terms of gender. “