Cracking down on unsafe practices on building sites
Unsafe practices on construction sites across Devon, Cornwall and Dorset are to be targeted as part of a national initiative aimed at reducing death, injury and ill health.
To support a month-long drive to improve standards in one of Britain’s most dangerous industries, inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will visit smaller sites where refurbishment or repair works are taking place.
Between 18 February and 15 March, they will make unannounced visits to ensure duty holders are managing high-risk activity, such as working at height.
They will also check for general good order, assess welfare facilities and check whether suitable PPE, such as head protection, is being used appropriately.
Business Cards From Only £10.95 Delivered www.myprint-247.co.uk
View detailsOur heavyweight cards have FREE UV silk coating, FREE next day delivery & VAT included. Choose from 1000's of pre-designed templates or upload your own artwork. Orders dispatched within 24hrs.
Terms: Visit our site for more products: Business Cards, Compliment Slips, Letterheads, Leaflets, Postcards, Posters & much more. All items are free next day delivery. www.myprint-247.co.uk
Contact: 01858 468192
Valid until: Sunday, June 30 2013
During 2011/12, one worker was killed while working in construction in Cornwall and a further two in Devon. 28 were seriously injured in Cornwall, 60 in Devon and 32 in Dorset. Nationally there were 49 deaths and more than 2,800 major injuries.
The purpose of the initiative is to remind those working in the industry that poor standards are unacceptable and could result in enforcement action.
Joanna Teasdale, HSE Principal Inspector for the Devon, Cornwall and Dorset Construction Division, said:
“Death and injury continue to result from avoidable incidents and it is largely those engaged in refurbishment and repair work who are failing to step up to the mark. Poor management of risks and a lack of awareness of responsibilities are unacceptable.
“In many cases simple changes to working practices can make all the difference, and can even save lives. Therefore if we find evidence that workers are being unnecessarily put at risk we will take strong action.
“We are determined to drive the message home that site safety and worker welfare cannot be compromised.”
Further information about safe-working in construction can be found online at:
www.hse.gov.uk/construction
Comments
by OutsideView
Monday, February 18 2013, 2:51PM
“Unfortunately, no amount of checks and legislation is any substitute for common sense”