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.
