Is the Proposed CDM 201X a Stitch in Time?
In order for any industry to be efficient and effective in its operations, it needs to constantly evaluate and re-evaluate its regulations, methods, processes and in the case of the construction industry, compliance. This is imperative not just in improving performance and remaining relevant, but in the case of the construction industry, this is especially …Read the Full Post
You need more than a first aid box
The frequency of accidents in the work place vary widely according to the type of industry. Construction is statistically far more dangerous to worker health than insurance for instance, primarily because of the risks involved with the working environment. However the same basic rules regarding health and safety and first aid provisions apply to all …Read the Full Post
Working at heights – what about suspension trauma?
When considering working at heights, most consideration is devoted to the practicalities of ladders, scaffolding and safety harnesses. However additional consideration needs to be provided for staff wearing safety harnesses or who will be suspended freely for any period of time – suspension trauma. What is suspension trauma? Also known as “harness hang syndrome” (HHS), …Read the Full Post
Backing up your PPE with welfare facilities
Maintaining construction site Health and safety can be complicated with so many factors to consider. Most businesses understand the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE), but this does not stop some failing to issue their employees with it. But PPE is just one factor employers need to consider. Equally important is the provision of welfare facilities …Read the Full Post
How to avoid slips and trips in the workplace
Slips and trips are one of the most common accidents to occur in the workplace. The result is millions of working days missed on an annual basis and the corresponding litigation that may well follow. However by following a few simple tips the inherent risk associated with this type of accident and the resulting fallout …Read the Full Post
Health and Safety – Everyone has a part to play
Although the ultimate responsibility for site safety lies with the employer, every employee has their part to play in raising standards. Businesses committed to improving safety engage and involve employees at all levels, helping to share the burden of spotting and reporting issues. The value of consulting your employees Employers that encourage open dialogue with …Read the Full Post
Industrial explosion underscores the importance of health and safety risk assessments
Kidderminster-based firm Filtration Service Engineering Ltd was fined over £45,000 last week after being found guilty of breach Section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. The severity of the punishment reflects the life-threatening injuries suffered by their employee Clive Dainty who was caught in the blast. Following concerns about the …Read the Full Post
Based in the West Midlands? How is your Construction site safety?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has announced plans to target building sites in the West Midlands in a drive to reduce “death, injury and ill health” in the industry. The campaign is running throughout the month of February and will involve inspectors checking other aspects of employee protection that are often regarded as “less …Read the Full Post
Two Reminders Of Construction Industry’s Need To Address Safety Issues
As has often been noted, both through this blog and in official statistics from the HSE which we have referred to in the past, the construction industry continues to represent the highest risk in terms of workplace injuries, and accidents in the workplace. During the past week we have seen two significant incidents, both occurring …Read the Full Post
A Common Health And Safety Oversight Costs A Life
There’s a serious issue in the world of Health and Safety, and one we see far too frequently. It’s also an issue which has just cost BAE Systems £350,000 in fines, and one innocent man his life. Very often we see businesses applying good Health and Safety advice complying with the HSE recommendations and requirements, …Read the Full Post