Construction Industry Accident Statistics

Reports released today showed that during the period of 2009-2010 four workers died in the East Midlands in Construction related accidents and a further 645 were injured. These alarming figures come as the HSE will be beginning their unannounced visits to construction sites in Lincoln, Leicester, High Peak and Northampton.

Surprise Visits Aimed at Located Sources of Errors

During the surprise visits inspectors will be looking out for problems involving the maintenance and refurbishments on sites.  Another area which will be focused upon is site repairs.  These have been highlighted as key areas as these are the causes of most of the accidents which have occurred.

Asbestos is still a huge problem which poses serious health risks, and this will be investigated thoroughly at all of the locations the HSE are due to visit.  Height is another issue which needs attending to.

Last Year’s Inspections Showed Multiple Failings

During the visits across Lincolnshire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire last year approximately one third of the sites which were visited failed the inspections.  In total 145 construction sites were visited and during those visits over 45 enforcement notices were issued.  These meant that contractors had to make changes to the way they worked or in some cases they were demanded to stop the dangerous work until the problems were fully attended to.

Some of the problems which were discovered included structural parts of buildings being removed without the proper safety measures being adhered to, and a failing to wear the proper safety gear to protect the workers from falling when working at heights.

Would you be prepared for an Unscheduled Visit from HSE?

AT Veritas our health and safety consultation services and designed to make sure that your company is following the law and regulations set out to protect workers and the public from harm caused by your company’s activities.  We can help to make sure that your site is kept up to date and within the law of Health and Safety.

One of the main focus points on the visits which are currently being carried out in the East Midlands is the presence of asbestos.  Here at Veritas our consultants carry out many Health and safety checks and one area in which we specialise in is Asbestos Survey Services within Birmingham and the surrounding areas.

Asbestos is one of the most lethal dangers which can be found within the work place.  And any building which was built before the year 2000 could contain the substance.  You are legally required to make sure that you manage the risks involved with asbestos which is extremely dangerous when it is disturbed in anyway.  You need to be aware of The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006, and we can make sure that you are doing everything which is required of you.

We have three types of Asbestos surveys available which involve location, management and the refurbishment and demolition surveys.  To find out more please call us free on 0800 1488 677 to make sure you are prepared for the unexpected.

About David Cant

A chartered (fellow) safety and risk management practitioner with 20+ years of experience. David provides a healthy dose of how-to articles, advice and guidance to make compliance easier for construction professionals, Architects and the built environment. Get social with David on Twitter and Linkedin.