Nationwide inspections tackle biggest cause of death in construction

E021:07 6 June 2007

Last year 24 of the 59 worker deaths in construction were caused by a fall from height. A further 4000 major injuries such as broken bones or fractured skulls were reported by the construction industry, half of which involved a fall from below head height or tripping over materials on walkways.

In a bid to reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by falls and trips the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced that over 1000 nationwide inspections will take place on construction sites throughout June and July.

Stephen Williams, HSE Chief Inspector of Construction said,

"The figures speak for themselves and we are going to tackle the issue head on with enforcement led inspections. Of course, the key to success will be support from construction workers and the industry itself. However we are prepared to take action against those who carelessly flout safety precautions with devastating effects to workers and their families".

HSE inspectors are going to focus on making sure the correct precautions are taken during work at low and high heights to prevent the risk of any fall. They will also be checking that sites are kept in good order with footpaths, corridors and stairwells free of obstructions.

Mr Williams continued,

"It is unacceptable that so many lives are being lost by falls and trips, especially when simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk. Employers must ensure that workers are competent and have access to the right equipment. Sensible measures like keeping walkways on site clear must be taken to see an improvement in safety".

Last year 1379 contractors were visited during the 'Fit Out campaign' a similar HSE initiative. Inspectors found that work at height was a significant problem and as a result took enforcement action against 170 firms, and against a further 29 firms due to a lack of good order on site.

• More information on the 'Trips and Falls' in Construction inspections

Note to editors

1. Trips and falls in construction 2007, continues HSE's enforcement led inspection activity and follows on from the Fit Out Campaign in 2005 and the Watch Your Step initiative in 2006.
2. Reducing the number of injuries and deaths from trips and falls is a priority for HSE to help the construction industry meet its accident target by 2010. HSC published its Strategy for workplace health and safety in Great Britain to 2010 and beyond on 23 February 2004. The strategy aims to promote a vision of health and safety as a cornerstone of a civilised society and to achieve a record of workplace health and safety that leads the world. The strategy is available at: hse.gov.uk/aboutus/strategiesandplans/strategy.htm
3. During this inspection period and to coincide with HSE's 'Ladders Exchange' initiative, HSE is working in partnership with ladder retailers and equipment hire companies to offer a ladder exchange facility. Information is available at hse.gov.uk/falls/ladderexchange.htm

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