Vinci audits Qatari company

The 60,000 capacity Al Bayt Stadium, Qatar. Credit: Reuters.

The trade union representatives of Vinci, one of the world’s largest construction and infrastructure contractors, have carried out a second audit of Qatari owned company QDVC’s operations, sites and workers’ accommodation in Qatar.

The second audit – which occurred on 26 and 27 October 2021 – was conducted with the Building and Wood Workers’ International (BWI) and followed on from an audit in 2019. No major issues were reported to have been found in the second audit.

Sarah Tesei, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, Vinci, said, “By engaging with unions and seeking their critical input, Vinci showcases its willingness to be transparent and continuously make progress in these complex and sensitive issues.

“The level of cooperation with and trust in BWI has proven to be very constructive year after year and will leave a meaningful legacy for workers.”

The second audit found that improvements had been made since the initial audit, such as on worker health and safety, and the raising of overall rights of workers and welfare standards across QDVC’s supply chain. 

Qatar, which is hosting the football world cup in 2022, has been heavily criticised for the poor - and often dangerous - conditions of those who operate on its construction sites.

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