The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has called on the Government to set up Covid-19 testing stations on major building sites.

The institute said it would help the industry bounce back quickly and safely by ensuring any outbreaks are tracked and traced quickly.

The recommendation for large construction sites in Britain to be integrated into the new NHS Test and Trace system is one of a number of recommendations submitted to the UK Parliament’s Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Select Committee.

The professional body said: “The construction industry is set to play a key role in restarting the economy and facilitating national recovery, and it is, therefore, crucial that the industry receives the support it needs to return to work and cope with the ongoing impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.”

More than 86% of construction sites in England and Wales are open. The CIOB said major sites would make good locations for testing stations.

Eddie Tuttle, director of policy, research and public affairs, said: “This will help the construction sector – which is a vital part of the UK economy – to get back to full strength with confidence. It will also help improve public trust in the sector, which has been battling to keep essential infrastructure projects moving.

Under our proposals, the public will be sure that construction is doing everything it can to keep the virus under control.”