The HSE carried out intensive construction industry checks throughout March
Construction companies still failing in health and safety responsibilities - 18th May 2009
During March 2009 the Construction Division at
the
Health and Safety Executive (HSE) had an intensive
period of carrying out construction site checks and
inspecting contractors.
Over this intensive inspection period 1,759
construction sites were visited and they also
inspected 2,145 contractors.
Although
falls from height remain the main cause of
deaths and serious injury at work in the
construction industry, more than one in six sites
were found to not have adequate safety measures in
place.
The HSE Inspectors issued 265 Prohibition Notices
for failings in working at height safety and a
further 17 Improvement Notices were issued.
Along with
falls from height,
slips and trips in the
workplace are a major cause of construction
accidents at work, which can often be prevented if
the working area is kept in good order.
11 Prohibition Notices were issued for failing to
keep good order, with a further 12 Improvement
Notices.
Despite asbestos being the biggest single reason for
deaths in the UK from work related causes, many
appeared not to be taking adequate measures.
20 Prohibition Notices and 16 Improvement Notices
were issued in relation to asbestos removal.
There were a further 150 notices issued for other
serious areas for concern.
Some of the health and safety issues were so bad
that in 11 cases the HSE Inspectors are considering
whether to prosecute or not.
