Project Summary

Challenge

While many construction businesses have established equity, diversity and inclusivity (EDI) policies, site-based workers do not always experience the benefits of these initiatives in their day-to-day working environments. Particularly for underrepresented groups, the construction industry continues to face challenges around workforce diversity, inclusion and retention.

Evidence from industry research shows that women, ethnic minority workers and other diverse groups remain underrepresented across the sector and are more likely to leave the industry at an early stage of their careers.

Through collaboration with clients, contractors and site teams, Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure Ltd identified a range of barriers to creating more inclusive site cultures. These include behavioural challenges, limited access to training, language barriers, lack of time for learning, and inconsistent approaches to embedding EDI expectations across supply chains.

Solution

The Black Hats project has been developed to improve fairness, inclusion and respect (FIR) on construction sites through a combination of digital e-learning modules, face-to-face training and practical site-based interventions. The programme works with clients, contractors and supply chain partners to create environments where everyone feels respected, valued and able to thrive.

The programme is developing a suite of resources specifically designed for site-based workers and supervisors, including multilingual induction materials, mobile e-learning modules, site standards and practical guidance for creating more inclusive workplaces. The training focuses on helping individuals understand EDI issues, challenge inappropriate behaviours and build positive workplace cultures.

Key elements include:

• Fairness, Inclusion and Respect (FIR) induction training

• Mobile app-based micro-learning modules

• Site-based FIR Ambassador training

• Training for site managers and supervisors

• Inclusive site standards and guidance

• Multilingual learning resources

• Site stand-down sessions and toolbox talks

• Practical support for reporting concerns and improving workplace culture.

The e-learning modules are available in English, Bulgarian, Lithuanian, Punjabi, Polish and Romanian and cover the following topics:

• FIR Onsite

• Practical Inclusion

• Understanding Your Rights

• The Difference Between Us

• Why We Shouldn’t Assume

• Speaking Up

• Banter

• Sexual Harassment

• How We Treat Each Other

• Mental Health

• Making a Difference

• Leading Onsite.

Resources have been designed to be accessible, engaging and practical for construction site environments, with content available in multiple languages to support a diverse workforce.

The project is currently rolling out across pilot sites, supported by a dedicated mobile learning platform and a network of industry partners committed to driving long-term culture change across the construction sector. Early delivery has already seen the development of training materials, multilingual video resources, an interactive learning app and the launch of pilot training programmes on live construction projects.

Outcomes

Resources

• Find out more about the new Supply Chain School app

Download the app from:

• Google Play - The Supply Chain School

• App Store - Supply Chain School App