HSE clampdown to reduce death and injury on Thames Valley construction sites

Date:

27 February 2011

Release No:

COISE/2702

Construction sites around the Thames Valley are being put under the spotlight as part of an intensive inspection initiative aimed at reducing death, injury and ill health.

Between 20 February and 16 March, inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive are visiting local sites including areas of North Oxfordshire such as Banbury and Bicester, where refurbishment or repair works are being carried out. This is part of a national month-long drive to improve standards in one of Britain's most dangerous industries.

Their primary focus will be high-risk activity such as working at height and also 'good order' such as ensuring sites are clean and tidy with clear access routes.

The purpose of the initiative is to remind those working in construction that poor standards are unacceptable, and could result in enforcement action.

During 2010/11, two workers were killed and 115 others were seriously injured while working in construction in Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. There were five deaths and 400 serious injuries across the South East region as a whole.

Norman Macritchie, a principal inspector in HSE's Southern Region Construction Division, said:

"The refurbishment sector continues to be the most risky for construction workers, all too often straightforward practical precautions are not considered and workers are put at risk. In many cases simple changes to working practices can make all the difference.

"Poor management of risks in this industry is unacceptable. As we have demonstrated in the past, we will take strong action if we find evidence that workers are being unnecessarily put at risk."

Further information about safe-working in construction can be found online at www.hse.gov.uk/construction

Notes to editors

1. During the inspection initiative, HSE inspectors will be looking at whether:
   • Jobs that involve working at height have been identified and properly planned to ensure that appropriate precautions are in place
   • Equipment is correctly installed / assembled, inspected and maintained and used properly
   • Sites are well organised, to avoid trips and falls
   • Walkways and stairs are free from obstructions
   • Work areas are clear of unnecessary materials and waste
2. Falls from height remains one of the most common causes of fatalities and major injuries in the construction sector in Great Britain, with more than five incidents recorded every day.
3. Further information on the Construction Design and Management Regulations 2007 http://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/cdm.htm
4. Further information on falls and trips in the construction industry http://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/campaigns/fallstrips/index.htm

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Issued on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive by COI News & PR South East