Construction & Groundworks

Construction sites need reliable groundworks supplies to meet CDM and HSE standards. From steel road pins and reinforcing bar to site barrier mesh and trench covers, Cocus stocks the essentials.

Regulatory Requirements

  • CDM Regulations 2015 require all construction sites to maintain secure perimeters and manage hazardous materials appropriately.
  • HSE guidance mandates physical barriers or load-rated covers around all open trenches and excavations where there is a risk of falls.
  • Asbestos waste must be double-bagged in printed approved bags and consigned to a licensed facility under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Site perimeter fencing and security

Under CDM Regulations 2015, the principal contractor must ensure the site is secured against unauthorised access. Barrier mesh and steel road pins provide a cost-effective temporary perimeter that can be repositioned as work progresses. For a more robust installation, combine fencing pins with high-tensile wire or purpose-built hoarding. Browse Site Fencing & Barrier Mesh for complete kits.

Rebar and concrete spacers: getting cover depth right

Insufficient concrete cover over reinforcing bar is a leading cause of structural corrosion and failure. BS EN 1992-1-1 (Eurocode 2) specifies minimum cover depths by exposure class β€” from 20mm for internal dry conditions to 40mm for external and coastal environments. Plastic spacers and bar chairs hold rebar at the correct standoff from formwork throughout the pour. Our Concrete Spacers & Chairs range covers flat base, block type, and high chair configurations for slabs, beams, and walls.

Managing excavations and open trenches safely

Work at Height Regulations 2005 and CDM Regulations 2015 both require that all excavations are properly guarded when work is not active. Rated trench cover boards allow pedestrian and vehicle traffic to continue safely over open service trenches. See our Trench & Hole Covers for load-rated options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What road pins do I need for temporary barrier mesh fencing?

Standard barrier mesh uses 1m or 1.2m steel road pins driven into the ground at 1.5–2m intervals. Heavy-duty form pins suit hard ground. All our pins are steel and available individually or in packs.

What rebar cover depth is required for a concrete ground slab?

For a slab in a typical internal dry environment (Exposure Class XC1 under Eurocode 2), a minimum 25mm cover is normally specified. For external or exposed slabs, 40mm is typical. Always follow your structural engineer's specification.

Is site boundary fencing a legal requirement on UK construction sites?

Yes. CDM Regulations 2015 require the principal contractor to secure the site against unauthorised access at all times. Physical barriers are required around all sites and around all excavations and floor voids.

How must asbestos waste be packaged for disposal?

Asbestos waste must be double-bagged in approved printed asbestos bags, sealed, labelled, and consigned to a licensed disposal facility under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012. Our bags carry the required hazard warning text.