Dozens of Construction sites across the North East have been put under the spotlight as part of an intensive inspection regime by the Health and Safety Executive.
A total of 69 sites were inspected across the North East during the first three weeks of September and while the majority were found to be managing health and safety appropriately, work was stopped immediately on several sites. A total of 14 Prohibition Notices were served because the proper precautions were not in place for working at height.
The targeted campaign was in response to the continued loss of life and serious injury arising from falls from height. In the 12 months to April 2012, 49 workers lost their lives on construction sites in the UK, with falls from height being the most common cause of fatal injuries.
HSE Principal Inspector Robert Hirst said:
"Whilst the initiative was primarily to raise awareness of the problem of unsafe working practices, it is of serious concern that such a significant proportion of sites visited were undertaking work at height in a dangerous manner.
"Straightforward practical precautions are well known in the industry. Safe access equipment is readily available for purchase or hire and there is no excuse for workers, and the self employed, to put themselves in a position of danger when working at height.
"HSE will continue to maintain a strong enforcement profile where there is blatant disregard to safe working practice."
Regional reporters should call the appropriate Regional News Network press office.
Issued on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive by the Regional News Network
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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