In a major new site safety initiative, a number of construction industry trade bodies have today jointly launched a new safety plan for the the housebuilding industry. The Health and Safety Charter is the product of the newly-formed Housebuilders Health and Safety Forum, which comprises the House Builders Federation, National Housing Federation, National House-Building Council, Construction Products Association and Cabe. The charter requires Forum members to deliver an annual action plan for improving site safety, including better planning in the design phase and promoting best practice. "This Charter marks a significant and tangible step forward both for the industry and for the other stakeholders in the business of providing the new homes that our customers want and indeed that our country needs,” said Stewart Baseley, chairman of the House Builders Federation. "It is a commitment to maintain best practice in health and safety and to improve where improvement is needed. Moreover, it is a commitment to share information, to exchange ideas and provide a climate where good practice can flourish."