The Construction Employers Federation (CEF) has issued a call to construction firms across Northern Ireland to participate in its month-long health and safety campaign, #SafetyReboot2026, scheduled for January 2026. The core of the initiative is a simple yet effective mandate: construction sites are encouraged to observe a brief, 15-minute work stoppage once per week throughout January to dedicate focused time to essential health and safety topics.

The CEF has developed a comprehensive suite of resources designed to facilitate meaningful conversation and interaction among the workforce on safety issues encountered daily on site. These materials include specific question packs for each topic, intended to stimulate discussion, and detailed discussion aids to support the person facilitating the weekly stoppage.

To maximise visibility on sites throughout January, dedicated posters for each topic have been created. These posters will be made available next week and feature a QR code that links directly to the relevant digital resource, ensuring easy access for site personnel. Companies are strongly encouraged to use these structured breaks as an opportunity for staff and sub-contractors to genuinely engage with the crucial topics. Firms can share updates and images of their involvement using the hashtag #SafetyReboot2026 to highlight the industry's commitment to workforce safety in Northern Ireland.

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RESOURCES 

The CEF Health & Safety Committee have selected weekly topics to be focussed on for the first three weeks of the initiative. Contractors can use the final week to choose a remaining topic that is relevant to their business. 

Week 1 - week commencing 5 January 2026 - Site Reinduction

An opportunity to take the time to refamiliarize site workers with their surroundings, the site rules and the conditions that were in place before they went on leave for Christmas. 

Question Pack - Site Reinduction

Week 2 - week commencing 12 January 2026 - Working at Height

HSE/HSENI continually confirm working at height as one of the biggest causes of fatalities and major injuries in the construction industry. Planning in advance of work commencing is key to develop a safe system of work and avoid potentially devastating consequences.

Question Pack - Working at Height

Discussion Aid - Working at Height

Week 3 - week commencing 19 January 2026 - Mental Health

Mental ill health is well documented as a prevalent issue in the construction industry. By talking about issues, it helps to break down the stigma.

Question Pack - Mental Health and Wellbeing

Discussion Aid - Mental Health and Wellbeing

Week 4 - week commencing 26 January 2026 - Your company: You choose

In the final week, select one of the remaining topics that best suits your current business needs.

Resources, including question packs and discussion aids, are available on the CEF website: www.cefni.co.uk/CEFNI/Articles/2025/SafetyReboot2026%20Resources.aspx