Temporary Works play a crucial role in construction projects, ensuring safety, stability, and efficiency. To gain deeper insights into this important subject, we spoke with Damien, an experienced Temporary Works trainer at Lighthouse Safety, to break down what Temporary Works involve, the key roles, and why training is essential.
Q: What exactly are Temporary Works, and why are they important?
Damien: Temporary Works (TW) are structures or systems used during construction, maintenance, or demolition that support the final build. They include formwork, falsework, excavation supports, structural propping, scaffolding, hoardings, and even access roads.
Essentially, TW ensures the stability and safety of structures while work is carried out. Without proper Temporary Works planning, projects face serious safety risks, delays, and cost overruns.
Q: What are some examples of Temporary Works on a construction site?
Damien: Common examples include:
- Formwork and Falsework – Support structures used to hold concrete in place until it sets.
- Excavation Supports – Temporary shoring to prevent trench collapses.
- Structural Propping – Supports for walls, beams, and floors during construction.
- Scaffolding & Access Platforms – Providing safe working areas for operatives.
- Site Set-Up Structures – Hoardings, barriers, cabin foundations, and temporary access roads.
- Safety Elements – Guardrails, edge protection, and cover panels for openings.
- Specialist Industry Applications – Tunnelling, marine, and railway projects also have unique TW needs.
Q: What are the key roles in Temporary Works management?
Damien: The two most important roles are:
- Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC)
- Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS)
Both roles require formal appointments and a solid understanding of BS 5975 regulations to manage TW safely.
Q: What does the CITB Temporary Works training cover?
Damien: Lighthouse Safety offers both CITB Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) and Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS) courses. These courses, developed in partnership with CITB, HSE, and industry experts, cover:
✔ Procedural control of Temporary Works(BS 5975)
✔ CITB’s 3Ps – People, Process, and Product (key reasons for TW failure)
✔ CITB’s 4Cs – Communication, Coordination, Cooperation, and Competence (essential for effective TW management)
✔ Real-world case studies and examples of Temporary Works incidents
✔ Assessment and certification valid for 5 years
Q: Why is CITB Temporary Works training important?
Damien: Temporary Works failures can result in serious accidents, project delays, and even fatalities. Proper training ensures that Temporary Works are planned, executed, and removed safely. Everyone involved understands their responsibilities. Companies comply with legal requirements and industry best practices. Projects avoid costly rework and reputational damage.
Q: What can delegates expect from Lighthouse Safety’s training?
Damien: Our courses are interactive, practical, and real-world focused. We use actual case studies from my own experience in the industry so delegates can learn from real incidents and best practices.
By the end of the course, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to manage Temporary Works safely and efficiently, whether you’re working as a Coordinator or Supervisor.
Ready to enhance your Temporary Works knowledge?
Book your CITB Temporary Works course with Lighthouse Safety today!
We offer this as face to face training at our facilities in Kent, and London plus a remote learning course joined online.
Book Temporary Works Supervisor https://www.lighthousesafety.co.uk/training-courses/citb-constructionskills-training-courses/temporary-works-supervisor/
Book Temporary Works Coordinator https://www.lighthousesafety.co.uk/training-courses/citb-constructionskills-training-courses/temporary-works-coordinator/
