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UK construction sites are required to comply with key regulations to ensure that on-site workers work in safe conditions. There are many ways to fulfil these essential requirements, but hiring welfare units that comply with HSE regulations is among the most effective. HSE-compliant welfare units, whether static or mobile, keep building and construction projects aligned with mandatory health and safety regulations and help sustain morale, productivity, and efficiency on site.
With the spurt in demand for compliant welfare solutions, you may find a number of providers with a wide range of options. But which welfare provider do you rely on for site-ready welfare solutions?
This decision is essential, as no two providers offer the same standard of welfare hire. And choosing the wrong partner can lead to project delays, risks, and added costs.
Use this article as a reference point to make your search easier. We’re comparing three names that often come up for welfare hire in the UK: Hireforce Welfare, Wernick Hire, and Portakabin.
Welfare Hire Provider Profiles
Hireforce Welfare
Based in Leicester, Hireforce Welfare is one of the leading independent providers of construction welfare solutions. Along with a well-maintained fleet of HSE-compliant welfare cabins and a knowledgeable team, they’ve become the go-to choice for contractors looking for dependable and practical worker welfare solutions.
As a dedicated welfare arm of the larger Hireforce Group, they specialise in offering independently working welfare cabins through their Ecosmart range. Unlike other providers that offer on-site welfare solutions as part of a broader range, Hireforce Welfare focuses on worker safety, comfort, and compliance.
Wernick Hire
Wernick Hire is a leading provider of portable and modular buildings. It enjoys a widespread presence across the wider UK through its network of 28 depots. From single cabins to full modular complexes, contractors can choose from a comprehensive range of site accommodation on hire.
Portakabin
Portakabin is a leading name in modular accommodation solutions for hire. Their site accommodation is suitable for a range of applications, from construction sites to healthcare facilities.
Comparison Table
| Hireforce Welfare | Wernick Hire | Portakabin | |
| Primary Focus | Mobile/ towable HSE-compliant welfare cabins for hire | Towable and static welfare range | Site accommodation for hire, including welfare units |
| Formats Available | 6/10/16 person units with essential welfare facilities; some with office | Towable and large static units | Toilet blocks, changing rooms, canteens, drying setups |
| Unit Operations | Self-contained with independent water and power supply | Self-contained | Often deployed as site cabins or complexes |
| Compliance | HSE-compliant range | State compliance with health and safety welfare directives | Welfare facilities aligned to HSE expectations |
| Sustainability | Includes hybrid-power generators and other power-saving features | Eco models with solar + lithium battery | Limited sustainability focus |
| Ideal For | Quick to deploy, self-contained welfare units, and straightforward welfare hire | Flexible hire, off-grid and eco options | Large and multi-unit site setups with multiple welfare functions |
Key Factors To Consider Before Choosing a Provider
1. Welfare Coverage
Hireforce Welfare
Hireforce Welfare positions itself as a welfare-hire specialist, offering its Ecosmart range of welfare cabins for hire. Their welfare range is available in 6, 10, and 16-person unit configurations, with the 10 and 16-person variants including a 3-person office with a separate entrance.
These self-contained units run independently with built-in power and water supply. Find essential amenities that cover health and safety compliance, from forearm-washing basins to a canteen-like seating area. They also support regular toilet emptying services and maintain on-site hygiene. Hireforce Welfare provides an all-in-one welfare setup, so contractors do not need to buy separate units to meet individual requirements.
Wernick Hire
Wernick Hire offers a fleet of modern units, including sustainable options. From single cabins to complete modular complexes, they offer a comprehensive range of units to meet diverse welfare needs. They are more focused on large-project hires for longer terms than on smaller-unit needs.
Portakabin
Portakabin supplies site accommodation cabins for hire that can be fitted with welfare features. It builds standalone buildings made from steel frames and installs them by crane. These units can be linked or stacked to form large or multi-storey complexes, ideal for longer, wider site solutions. Their range also supports anti-vandal options for added security.
2. Setup and Delivery
Hireforce Welfare
Hireforce Welfare’s Ecosmart units feature a hydraulic system that enables quick on-site setup in 30-45 seconds. They primarily support unit delivery across Central England through their reliable network. You can get these units transported and positioned where you need them on your site.
Wernick Hire
With 28 depots across the UK, Wernick positions itself as a provider with the most comprehensive geographical cover. It enables them to easily deliver and support sites.
Portakabin
Portakabin states that it can transport its cabins with minimum disruption. Their portable cabins come with all fixtures, including gas and electric supply, and can be set up quickly on the site.
3. Eco and Sustainability Features
Hireforce Welfare
Hireforce Welfare’s Ecosmart range supports on-site sustainability through a range of power-saving features. Units can be powered using a battery and a diesel-fuelled generator. Other eco-friendly features include PIR-activated LED lighting and auto-turn-off, which save fuel and prevent energy waste.
Wernick Hire
Wernick Hire specialises in solar-lithium-powered hybrid units that meet the needs of green project sites. However, these units can be expensive and may require a more flexible budget.
Portakabin
While Portakabin offers a wide range of modular accommodation solutions and portable buildings, it has a narrow focus towards sustainability.
Summing Up
We hope this guide gives you a clearer picture of what you can expect from welfare units and a suitable provider. Construction site welfare units are not a mere add-on to keep workers comfortable. They’re an essential part of site safety and compliance, with the potential to power your project’s progress.
Given its undisputed importance, it becomes even more important to pick the right provider, from this list or otherwise. So, understand your requirements, do your research beforehand, and get multiple quotes before finalising your decision.
Also read: The Hidden Cost of Neglecting Construction Worker Well-Being
Image source: elements.envato.com
