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News Release from: Health and Safety Executive | Subject: 1000 spot checks
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial
Team on 07 February 2008
1000 spot checks of refurbishment sites
Health and Safety Executive aims to inspect 1000 refurbishment sites across Great Britain, to tackle poor safety standards.
Last year over half of the workers who died on construction sites worked in refurbishment, and the number of deaths on refurbishment sites rose by 61% The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) announced that throughout February it aims to inspect 1000 refurbishment sites across Great Britain, to tackle poor safety standards
This article was originally published on Buildingtalk on 13 Jul 2004 at 8.00am (UK)
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Working at height, which last year killed 23 construction workers, and good site order will be the focus of inspections and contractors can expect strong enforcement action.
During a similar initiative carried out last summer, enforcement notices were issued at one in three sites visited.
Speaking after attending a number of site visits in Manchester today, HSE's Chief Inspector of Construction Stephen Williams said, "It is totally unacceptable that so many lives have been lost and continue to be put at risk on construction sites, particularly within the refurbishment sector.
"We will continue to take firm action against rogue elements who ignore safety precautions.
Sites where health and safety is taken seriously have nothing to fear, but we will root out those that put lives at risk".
During the inspection initiative, HSE inspectors will be looking at whether:.
- Jobs that involve working at height have been identified and properly planned to ensure that appropriate precautions are in place.
- Equipment is correctly installed / assembled, inspected and maintained and used properly.
- Sites are well organised, to avoid trips and falls.
- Walkways and stairs are free from obstructions.
- Work areas are clear of unnecessary materials and waste.
- The work force is made aware of risk control measures.
More information is available at http://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/tripsandfalls/index.htm.
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