Contractors: tired of taking the blame

Contractors are tired of taking the brunt of public scorn and risking their reputation through poor works co-ordination by utility providers, according to integrated network specialist Moleseye.

"Contractors in England are constantly finding their name being dragged through the mud when work in areas such as London takes longer than expected and causes disruption," said Moleseye managing director Alan McMaster.

"We are finding contractors taking on more works for utility providers, sometimes in whole regional areas, for the likes of Transco and BT.

"However, it is the increasing number of contractor names on works' boards, rather than utility providers' logos that become the focus of public backlash.

"What people don't realise is that the responsibility rests with the provider to ensure proper co-ordination. Contractors are risking their reputation and future work loads," he added.

Edinburgh-based Moleseye is looking to address the problem by branching into England with its online Moleseye One Call system that provides free online searches to locate underground assets before work starts and lists which parties contractors need to contact to carry out street works.

The scheme has already been successful in Scotland and Ireland where it has become a national standard and has witnessed initial damage savings of about 15%. A total of 29 roads authorities and 18 utility companies are signed up to the system in Scotland.

Health and safety has also improved on site with up-to-date plans on the location of gas pipes and cables.

Alongside this facility is Moleseye Register, which acts as a collaborative tool to bring together utility companies, contractors and highways authorities to plan and co-ordinate work before excavation begins.