Company: 3SC Group Scaffolding Limited
Policy Owner: Senior Management
Applies To: All employees, subcontractors, agency workers, visitors and business partners
Review Cycle: Annual or upon significant operational change
1. Policy Statement
3SC Group Scaffolding Limited is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults who may come into contact with our activities, sites, offices or personnel. We recognise our responsibility to protect individuals from abuse, harm, exploitation and neglect and to act promptly where concerns arise.
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. All personnel working on behalf of the company are expected to understand this policy and follow the procedures set out within it.
2. Scope and Application
This policy applies to all company activities, including:
- Construction and scaffolding works carried out on client sites.
- Projects located near schools, residential areas or public spaces.
- Visits to client premises where vulnerable persons may be present.
- Office-based interactions, meetings and site visits.
The policy covers all employees, subcontractors, labour-only operatives, agency workers and anyone acting on behalf of the company.
3. Definitions
Child: Any person under the age of 18.
Vulnerable Adult: A person who may be at risk due to age, disability, illness, mental health condition or other vulnerability.
Safeguarding: Protecting people from harm, abuse, exploitation and neglect.
4. Our Commitment
We are committed to:
- Creating a safe working environment for all individuals.
- Preventing harm, abuse or exploitation wherever reasonably practicable.
- Acting quickly and appropriately on any safeguarding concerns.
- Supporting victims and whistleblowers.
- Working in line with relevant legislation and guidance.
- Promoting a culture of awareness, respect and responsibility.
5. Recognising Safeguarding Concerns
Safeguarding concerns may include (but are not limited to):
- Physical abuse, assault or intimidation.
- Emotional or psychological harm.
- Neglect or unsafe living or working conditions.
- Sexual exploitation or inappropriate behaviour.
- Financial abuse, coercion or exploitation.
- Radicalisation or criminal exploitation.
Personnel must remain vigilant and report anything that causes concern, even if unsure.
6. Reporting Procedures
All safeguarding concerns must be reported immediately to a supervisor, manager or the designated safeguarding lead.
Where there is immediate danger or a serious risk of harm, emergency services must be contacted without delay.
Reports should include:
- Date, time and location of the concern.
- Names of individuals involved (if known).
- Description of what was observed or disclosed.
- Any immediate actions taken.
Confidentiality will be maintained wherever possible.
7. Roles and Responsibilities
Senior Management
- Ensure safeguarding arrangements are implemented and reviewed.
- Provide adequate resources and training.
- Appoint a safeguarding lead.
Managers and Supervisors
- Promote safeguarding awareness.
- Ensure concerns are reported and escalated appropriately.
- Support investigations and protective actions.
Employees and Contractors
- Follow this policy and relevant procedures.
- Report concerns promptly.
- Cooperate with investigations.
8. Training and Awareness
All relevant personnel will receive appropriate safeguarding awareness training. Toolbox talks and site briefings will reinforce expectations and reporting processes.
9. Confidentiality and Data Protection
Safeguarding information will be handled sensitively and in line with data protection legislation. Information will only be shared on a need-to-know basis.
10. Whistleblowing and Protection
Anyone raising safeguarding concerns in good faith will be protected from victimisation or retaliation in accordance with company whistleblowing procedures.
11. Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually or following significant legislative or operational changes to ensure continued effectiveness and compliance.