E053:06 10 May 2006

Minister thanks Access Industry for being ‘Height Aware’

Lord Hunt, Minister of health and safety, today thanked the member’s of the Access Industry Forum (AIF) for their efforts to improve the safety of people working at height.

Addressing the delegates at the AIF conference the minister said: “Reducing the number of falls from height remains a priority for HSE, 53 workers died during 2004/5 when they fell from a height. Last year, over 2000 workers suffered a major injury as a result of a fall form a ‘low height’, those below head level.

"The Work at Height Regulations are now a year old. The number of podium steps hired across the country has increased significantly, demonstrating that many people are using safer equipment. A great deal of effort has gone into educating employers and employees about the Regulations and much of this work has involved AIF members, you have risen to the health and safety challenge by producing safer access equipment and making better training available. I thank you for your contribution.

"As part of HSE’s commitment to reduce the number of fall incidents, 'Height Aware', a campaign to raise awareness of the risks maintenance workers face when working at height, will be launched later this month.

"Most falls are preventable and when workers fall so can profits. Employers of, and those working, as maintenance workers, electricians, painters and decorators, plumbers and carpenters should plan work properly. Always assess the risks, choose the right equipment and ensure all work at height is carried out by those competent to do so."

Notes to editors:

1. There were 53 deaths from falls at work in Great Britain last year. Many of those who died would still be alive today if sensible measures had been taken. More information on falls from height can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/falls/index.htm

2. The Access Industry Forum (AIF) was formed in October 2004 to address important issues for those working with and involved in the manufacture and supply of access equipment. Representatives include the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), Association of Technical and Lighting Access Specialists (ATLAS) and the British Ladder Manufacturers’ (BLMA). More detail on AIF is available from www.accessindustryforum.org.uk/

3. Photographs of Lord Hunt are available from Denise Lewisohn.

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