What is the Construction Protocol?

The  Construction Protocol is a joint voluntary agreement for those involved to work collaboratively with the GLAA to share information that will help stop or prevent the exploitation or abuse of workers. It was launched in October 2017.

What do signatories commit to?

‘The document commits signatories to:

• Work in partnership to protect vulnerable workers
• Agree to share information, where possible, to help stop or prevent the exploitation of workers
• Work together to manage information sensitively and confidentially
• Commit to raising awareness within the supply chain
• Maintain momentum through this protocol by communicating regularly

All parties have agreed to raise awareness within supply chains to help to prevent and protect workers from exploitation or abuse and take necessary steps to ensure that exploitation and abuse of workers is recognised and addressed with appropriate safeguards put in place to ensure that exploitative practice is not repeated.

Who has signed so far?

A number of organisations have signed up to the Protocol, including IEMA, BRE, Marshalls, the Sustainability School and Ardea international.

Why Has Ardea International joined the Protocol?

 Ardea International seeks to harness the power of organisations to help transform communities, particularly in addressing modern slavery. It supports business to work beyond their legal compliance obligations, be collaborative and influence policies. The Protocol gives us an opportunity to support the GLAA’s vision and share our expertise to help shape change.

“We are delighted that Ardea International has signed up to our Construction Protocol and pledged to fight modern slavery and labour abuse.

What does the GLAA,Deputy Director say about Ardea’s involvement?

“When organisations agree to the protocol, they commit to work in partnership with us to protect vulnerable and exploited workers. They also agree to share information to stop exploitation and pledge to raise awareness of slavery through supply chains.

“Around three million people are employed in UK construction and the industry contributes over £100 billion to the economy. However, there are challenges and we consider construction to be a high-risk sector for labour abuse and exploitation.

“It is therefore more important than ever for respected organisations such as Ardea International to sign up to the protocol and work with us to protect the reputation of the construction industry. Together, we can put an end to modern slavery and labour exploitation for good.”