Building stronger teams with Human Resources in the Construction Industry

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by Rebecca Lister | 21st Aug 2025

Explore Our HR Services for the Construction Industry

Article Summary
The construction industry is one of the most important sectors for the UK economy, however it is facing unique challenges. Construction managers face increasing pressures to meet project deadlines while managing workforce responsibilities and ensuring safety compliance across construction sites.

This article explores the vital role of HR in creating a safe work environment, enhancing employee engagement, and supporting the recruitment and retention of skilled employees.

Learn how Eclipse HR offers tailored human resources for the construction industry and associated construction sectors, offering strategic and operational support from our years of experience.

Our HR services for Construction Industry

The construction sector is one of the UK’s most significant employers, employing over 2 million individuals and making up 7% of UK GDP, as referenced in the Government Construction 2025 Strategy. Therefore, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic growth, as well as being responsible for the maintenance of and all infrastructure development in the UK.

Common Challenges for the Construction Industry

Businesses within the construction industry face many unique challenges and as such, employers must be prepared to deal with whatever the role throws at them. Having effective human resources in the construction industry providing sector specific support, advice and guidance, can help construction companies to stay compliant and also thrive.

Contact us today to speak to one of our consultants or explore our HR consultancy services for construction businesses.

Skills Shortage

One of the most worrying challenges faced by the construction industry today is skills shortage. The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has estimated that an additional 251,500 construction workers are needed by 2028, to meet industry demands. Without intervention, the labour shortage risks driving costs up and delaying critical construction projects.

The recent changes to the apprenticeship system, which you can read about in our Employing Apprentices article, offer an opportunity for businesses to benefit from a broader, more diverse talent pool, whilst at the same time upskill staff, meeting construction workforce needs more quickly and efficiently. This could be a great way to combat the skills shortage the construction sector is currently experiencing.

Additionally, while the sector has made strides in modernising its practices, it remains one of the most male-dominated industries in the country. This lack of diverse representation isn’t just a moral issue, but it is slowly becoming a business risk.

The UK construction industry faces a significant skills shortage, and tapping into underrepresented talent pools is essential for long-term sustainability. Looking to increase diversity and inclusion in construction? Expanding your recruitment efforts broadens the talent pool and brings fresh perspectives that can drive innovation and help your organisation thrive.

Retention of Skilled Workers

Alongside hiring difficulties, the construction industry is also facing issues with staff retention. Turnover of staff in construction is high, especially when compared with other sectors. Looking to foster a thriving company culture can be one way to improve retention. Looking beyond salary and benefits, companies within construction should look to establish a strong, value-led workplace wherein staff feel respected, appreciated and looked after.

Changes to Employment Law

Staying compliant and up-to-date with employment law can be a demanding task, especially in a busy construction environment and disputes could arise at any moment.

Whether it be from a disgruntled employee or just a need for legal assistance, staff employment disputes are taking up an unnecessary amount of time and money.

Ensuring you are aware of all of your obligations as an employer goes a long way in ensuring your construction business remains compliant and helps to avoid costly legal issues.

By working with an experienced advisory team offering human resources in the construction industry, companies in the sector can stay compliant with evolving regulations and prevent avoidable legal conflicts. As part of our tailored support for businesses we navigate complex employment laws and maintain best practices.

HR Support That Builds Stronger Construction Teams

The role of HR in construction goes far beyond administration. From supporting construction managers with day-to-day responsibilities to ensuring construction sites remain compliant and safe, strategic HR input makes a measurable difference.

Whether you’re seeking support with employee training, navigating workforce challenges, or creating a culture of engagement and retention, Eclipse HR is here to help.

Here at Eclipse HR our HR experts have years of experience across a wide range of sectors including the construction industry and are well placed to understand the challenges faced by both employers and employees alike; thus best placed to understand how to support them.

✓ Onboarding Experts | ✓ Employment Law Advisors | ✓ Construction HR Specialists

We understand the pressure to attract and retain skilled employees while maintaining a safe work environment and meeting legal obligations. Our specialist knowledge in construction HR allows us to deliver targeted solutions that align with your business goals and the unique demands of construction roles.

Offering tailored solutions to fit your company’s needs and vision, Eclipse HR recognises the importance of the construction sector and aims to provide construction clients with innovative strategies to drive productivity, mitigate risks and foster sustainable growth.

Our team offers expertise in common HR challenges including:

• Recruitment and onboarding including drafting employment contracts
• Disciplinary and grievance matters including workplace investigations
• Performance management and/or capability management
• Handling sickness and absence issues, including occupational health referrals
• Drafting HR policies and handbooks
• Employee health and wellbeing
• Management training and development, including equality and diversity, preventing sexual harassment

For more information on how we could help you with human resources in the construction industry, please feel free to explore our website to learn more about the HR services we provide in Kent and the South East; or get in touch to speak to a member of our team today!

Author: Rebecca Lister
Rebecca supports the Eclipse HR team and our clients across a range of tasks. Alongside her role, she is studying for an Integrated Masters in Advanced Legal Practice (MLaw) at the University of Kent. Her academic focus, particularly in employment law, complements her practical experience and deepens her understanding of HR in action.