HSE focus on falls and trips on building sites

Safety statistics for 2006 reveal that 40% of all deaths on construction sites were caused by falling from height. In one region alone there were 13 such deaths in the last 5 years which is considered to be an unacceptable level by the HSE.

In a bid to reduce the numbers of people injured at work, the HSE are to conduct a series of targeted inspections in key areas around the UK. The aim is to provide advice and to identify sites that may be failing to adequately manage the risks involved with the industry.

Precautions must be taken at low and higher heights to ensure that staff safety is at an optimum. Simple things such as marking out clear walkways and not working under manned scaffolding can help to reduce the risk of industrial injury. Equipment and safety gear must be available to all who need it and same must be kept in good order.