Stonework companies in and around London are being invited to attend a free event in a bid to help reduce the rate of injury and ill health in the sector.
Quality marble, granite and other stone finishes are now common in many high-spec houses and flats across the capital, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is keen to see that the many small businesses in this sector are aware of the potential health hazards associated with this work. In London and the South East there have been at least five fatalities over the last five years in this area of work.
The free half-day event is aimed at directors, managers, owners and supervisors of stonework companies to help them provide a safe and healthy workplace for their staff. The event has been organised by HSE, with support from Stone Federation.
Where: Marmi & Granito, Arches 8-11, Miles Street, Vauxhall, London SW8 1RZ
When: 9.00am- 12.30pm on Thursday 25 March 2010, with registration from 8.30 am
The event will be delivered by experts from HSE, who will use practical demonstrations to show workers ways in which they can avoid the most common causes of accidents and ill health in their work. The event will also provide an opportunity for companies to get together and discuss the safety issues they face in their industry.
The topics to be covered include:
HSE Inspector Steve Kirton said: "Some of the hazards in this area of work are easy to recognise, such as incorrectly stacked slabs which could fall on to people. But there are other less obvious hazards such as the long-term and potentially fatal respiratory problems caused by breathing in stone dust, and the risks involved in operating hand-held power tools, which can lead to permanent ill-health."
Jane Buxey, Chief Executive of Stone Federation, said: "Stone Federation Great Britain treats health and safety as one of the top priorities for our member companies and we commend and fully support this HSE initiative."
Regional reporters should call the appropriate Regional News Network press office.
Issued on behalf of HSE by COI News & PR London
Regional reporters should call the appropriate Regional News Network press office who act as HSE's Press Office throughout Great Britain.
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