Procurement and the council

This charter sets out what we expect from contractors working on our construction projects. It helps make sure work is safe, fair and benefits local communities.

If you are a contractor or subcontractor, you must follow this charter. If you are a resident, you can use it to understand what standards to expect and how to report a concern.

What contractors must do

Health and safety

You must:

• follow all health and safety laws and standards
• provide clean and suitable welfare facilities, including toilets and changing areas in accordance with the Construction, Design and Management Regulations 2015

Skills, training and jobs

You must:

• use workers with the right skills and qualifications
• support apprenticeships where required
• offer fair access to jobs and training
• work with us to support local people into employment

Pay and benefits

You should:

• pay at least the real living wage, unless higher rates apply
• offer basic employment benefits such as:
  • paid holidays
  • sick pay
  • pension contributions
  • robust support and injury compensation
  • death in service benefits for families

Fair and respectful workplaces

You must:

• treat all workers fairly and prevent discrimination
• support safe and respectful working conditions
• allow workers to join trade unions if they choose
• work with union representatives where they are present
• never use blacklists
• use recognised industry agreements for pay and conditions

Responsible sourcing

You should use responsibly sourced materials where possible. This includes materials that meet recognised standards.

Community benefits

Major projects must:

• create local jobs and training opportunities
• support small and local businesses
• follow the Scottish Government's statutory guidelines on Community Benefit clauses

For residents

What you can expect

Construction projects should:

• be safe and well managed
• support local jobs and training
• treat workers fairly
• minimise disruption where possible

Report a concern

If you see a problem on a construction site, contact us and tell us:

• where the site is
• what the issue is
• when you saw it

If you are working on a project and need advice, contact your project lead.

What this means

We work with contractors to make sure construction projects:

• meet high standards
• support workers
• benefit local communities