Cutting accidents in construction - Thurso event aims to reduce risks

Date:

28 October 2009

Release No:

SCO/185/09

Those working in the construction industry are urged to come together in Thurso next week and attend a free safety awareness event.   The Construction sector is one of the most dangerous industries in Scotland so the Working Well Together (WWT) campaign has organised an event specifically to address the issues faced by construction workers.

The event will be held on Tuesday 3 November at: T3UK, Janetstown Industrial Estate, Thurso, and it will cover a range of 'hot topics' including safe working at height, electricity and isolation, noise and vibration, and mechanical handling and quick hitch.

Run in partnership with Construction Skills and North Highland Construction Training Group, the event will offer clear, practical advice and guidance on how to address serious issues that can impact on business - and lives.  The WWT campaign aims to significantly reduce accidents, by not only raising awareness of key health and safety issues facing the construction industry, but by giving practical advice and solutions.

HSE Construction Inspector for the North Highlands Peter Black, who will be attending, said:

"The toll of injury in the construction industry in Scotland is a real matter for concern. Falls from height continue to be a major cause of deaths and serious injuries across Scotland.

"Events like this are designed to provide workers and company owners with the skills and knowledge they need to protect themselves.   I hope people will take this opportunity to attend a locally-delivered event."

Notes to editors

1. The event is being run from 08:30 until 13:00 on Tuesday 3 November 2009 at T3UK, Janetstown Industrial Estate, Thurso, KW14 7XF
2. You are invited to send a reporter / photographer to cover this event. Interview opportunities will be available. Please call Katy Jeffrey of COI news and PR Scotland to confirm attendance on the number below.
3. Working Well Together is an industry-wide construction health and safety campaign developed by the HSE's Construction Industry Advisory Committee (CONIAC). It is run by industry for industry. http://www.wwt.uk.com/

Press enquiries

Katy Jeffrey: 0131 244 9062
Out of hours: 0151 922 1221

Public Enquiries

HSE InfoLine,
Caerphilly Business Park,
Caerphilly
CF83 3GG
Tel: 0845 345 0055
http://www.hse.gov.uk/contact/index

Issued by COI News and PR Scotland