FIEC at OECD roundtable on “Building without Barriers”
On 14 April, FIEC Vice-President and Chair of the Housing Working Group, Joël Schons (LU), participated as a speaker in the OECD roundtable “Building without Barriers”, held in Paris. The event took place as part of the OECD Regulatory Policy Committee meeting and the “Simplifying for Success (S4S)” initiative, which promotes smarter, more streamlined regulatory frameworks to unlock economic growth.
During the discussion, VP Schons provided valuable insights into the challenges facing the construction industry, particularly in the housing context. Key points highlighted included the urgent need to accelerate permitting procedures, improve regulatory enforcement, and ensure better alignment of regulations across jurisdictions. “That the construction industry faces numerous regulatory burdens is a fact” – said VP Schons – “but any simplification process starts with the way a project enters the system: through fully digitalised and automated permitting procedure. This allows abolishing the usual sequential treatment of applications and the fragmentation of the decision-making process.” – he remarked.
FIEC’s contribution helped frame the debate around practical solutions to reduce administrative barriers and support a more efficient and responsive construction ecosystem across Europe.
European Parliament adopts report on exposure to chemicals (CMRD6)
On 15 April, the Employment and Social Affairs committee of the European Parliament adopted its position on the 6th revision of the Carcinogens, Mutagens and Reprotoxic substances Directive (CMRD6). This revision addresses new exposure limit values for several substances, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and welding fumes that are relevant for the construction industry.
Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) supported some elements from the European Commission’s proposal, but also introduced a new limit value for isoprene, present in sealants, waterproofing membranes, adhesives. They have also included an obligation for employers to provide personal protective equipment in case of residual exposure above the limit value and specific support for SMEs.
The MEPs also adopted the decision to enter interinstitutional negotiations.
Next step: the negotiating mandate will be approved in plenary.
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“Data Build” project kicked off
Together, the consortium will explore how data and digital tools can improve working conditions, skills development, and occupational safety and health across the construction sector.
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23 June, online: Global Construction & Infrastructure Conference
FIEC is a supporting partner of the upcoming online Global Construction and Infrastructure Conference organised by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) on 23 June, 2026. Speakers and participants will explore the key forces and trends at play within markets worldwide that must be tackled to prepare the construction sector for the future. Featuring a line-up of keynotes, panel discussions, and in-depth spotlight sessions from leading experts, this year’s programme covers topics such as circular construction, infrastructure management, green investment, bio-based materials, innovations in geothermal energy, smart connectivity, and a guide to AI best practices.
This is a good opportunity to hear transformative discussions and debates from the industry community thought leaders’ insights, to deepen your understanding of the pressing challenges facing the sector, and to gain the lessons, tools, and knowledge needed to embrace new technologies, embed sustainable models and projects, and navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing industry.
Download or view conference programme via the tab below. For additional information and the expected learning outcomes, visit this webpage. About RICS.
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