E135:05 18 October 2005

HSE calls for volunteer construction companies to test occupational health model

With the aim of reducing ill health in construction the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are calling for small and medium enterprises to take part in a pilot project.

The construction industry is one of the largest in the UK, employing up to 2 million people. Collectively costing up to £180m a year, it is estimated that 96,000 workers whose current or most recent job was in construction suffered from ill-health caused or made worse by their work.

Based on these figures the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has developed an Occupational Health Management Model (OHMM) providing advice to construction companies on how to manage issues such as manual handling, hand arm vibration, noise induced hearing loss and dermatitis.

The model is currently being piloted with companies who have signed up to test the model, which is in the form of a flow chart. But more are needed to effectively evaluate the models content, structure and to provide feedback. Those testing the model will be able to look at their current health management processes and decide what, if any, changes need to be implemented. All pilotees will be provided with a detailed paper explaining the OHMM in detail, a CD containing a draft of the OHMM, contact details for ongoing HSE support and a confidential baseline questionnaire.

Any company wanting more information before signing up to test the model, which is avaliable on line, at www.bomelconsult.com/HSE/OHMM.htm or by email from angela.starkey@hse.gsi.gov.uk can contact Sue Parkyn or Kate Goodwin-Foster on 01582 444200.

Public Enquiries : HSE InfoLine, Tel: 0845 345 0055, visit: www.hse.gov.uk/contact or write to: HSE InfoLine, Caerphilly Business Park, Caerphilly CF83 3GG.

Press Enquiries : Journalists only : Ray Allger 020 7717 6179

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