The Major Contractors Group will next week launch its occupational health scheme for the construction industry.
The scheme will aim to identify the workers who are at the greatest risk of ill health on construction sites. They will then be assessed for evidence of illness.

Guidelines will be set in four key areas: dermatitis, hand/arm vibrations, muscular–skeletal disorders and noise-induced hearing loss. The MCG targeted the four areas after consultation with the Health and Safety Executive.

Brian May, chief executive of HBG Construction, said the scheme formalised ad hoc arrangements that operate in many big firms. He said: "It's really about consolidation."

The MCG has already developed standard promotional materials to improve the understanding of occupational health risks within the workforce.

May said the move was a chance to continue the modernisation of the industry, as seen in measures such as the use of CSCS cards.