The European Federation of Building and Woodworkers (EFBWW) has welcomed the European Commission’s initiative to address quality job deficits through a possible Quality Jobs Act, stressing that concrete and binding EU action is urgently needed in the construction sector.
According to the EFBWW, poor job quality in construction is not an isolated problem but the result of long-standing structural issues. Fragmented subcontracting chains, weak enforcement of labour rules, and persistent occupational safety and health (OSH) risks continue to undermine workers’ rights, fair competition, and working conditions across Europe.
In its response, the EFBWW highlights two priority areas. The first is subcontracting and enforcement. Long and complex contracting chains, the widespread use of intermediaries, and insufficient liability rules make it easier to circumvent labour law and collective agreements while hampering effective inspections. The second priority is occupational safety and health. Construction remains one of the most dangerous sectors in the EU, with high levels of workplace accidents and occupational diseases, further aggravated by climate change, exposure to hazardous substances, and increasing psychosocial pressures.
The EFBWW argues that voluntary measures are not sufficient to address these challenges. It therefore calls on the European Commission to come forward with binding legislation to improve job quality, strengthen enforcement, and ensure high OSH standards throughout the internal market.
In particular, the EFBWW urges the Commission to propose an ambitious EU Directive to regulate and limit subcontracting in high-risk sectors. Such legislation should include full joint and several liability throughout subcontracting chains and a ban on the use of agencies in the context of posting in the construction sector.
Reard here full reply to the social partners' consultation and link to background information on the Commission website