Build UK, of which TTA is a member, have set out plans for the roll-out of the new Pre-Qualification (PQ) system for the construction industry. The new system is designed to reduce inefficiencies in the procurement process that are costing the construction industry up to ?1 billion a year, says Build UK.
The existing PQ system is complex and repetitive and a major barrier to improved productivity. The new system will ultimately allow for greater consistency and efficiency in how companies become pre-qualified for work at the first stage.
TTA represents contractor members within Build UK and can help you with advice and guidance, to enable you to benefit fully from the new system. The key points of the first phase of the roll-out include:
- ?The publication of a Common Assessment Standard used to pre-qualify companies. This is based on existing PQ questionnaires, including BSI?s PAS 91, and covers 10 key areas, including desktop and site-based assessment standards.
- Confirmation of the first recognised assessment bodies to certify companies against the Common Assessment Standard. These organisations are Achilles, CHAS and Constructionline.
Once the new system is fully up and running, companies will only have to be certified by one recognised assessment body. More information on the Common Assessment Standard is available here.
Jo Fautley, Deputy Chief Executive of Build UK, said: ?The construction industry is making great strides towards more collaborative working and this new PQ system has been developed by industry, for industry, based on standards that clients, contractors and the supply chain have all agreed on. We look forward to the industry getting on board with it over the coming months so we can realise the efficiency gains for everyone?s benefit and boost overall productivity.?