18.07.2007

HSE to target sites

The HSE is to target sites in an effort to reduce trips and falls. Construction sites throughout Bed, Bucks, Herts and Cambs will be targetted during July. During the visits inspectors will provide advice and will take robust enforcement action where there is a serious failure to comply and control the risk to those working on site.

The latest injury statistics show that 40 percent of all worker deaths in construction are caused by a fall from height and in the last 5 years there have been 13 such deaths involving construction workers in the Eastern Region. In addition, hundreds of major injuries have involved a fall from below head height or tripping over materials on walkways.

HSE inspectors will focus on making sure the correct precautions are taken during work at low and high heights to prevent the risk of a fall. They will also be checking that sites are kept in good order. Employers must ensure that workers are competent and have access to the right equipment. Sensible measures like keeping walkways on site clear must be taken to see an improvement in safety.

The HSE website contains guidance material on falls and good order prepared specifically to help duty holders take action to deal with these issue.