HSE to tackle building site accidents
STATISTICS from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show there were eight deaths and 415 major injuries reported on Lancashire building sites between 2006-11.
The agency is holding a free safety event on November 14 in a bid to reduce the number of accidents.
Up to 250 construction workers, who are either self-employed or own small firms, are being invited to attend the session at the Park Hall Hotel and Leisure Club in Charnock Richard. It will cover asbestos, working at height, respiratory risks and temporary work.
HSE principal inspector for construction in Lancashire Dorothy Shaw said: “I hope people working in the construction industry in Lancashire will be willing to give up half a day to come along to the event. It could end up saving someone’s life.
“It’s an alarming statistic that there are almost two incidents of death or major injury reported on Lancashire’s construction sites every week.
“There are many simple and straightforward precautions firms could be taking to reduce the risks from asbestos, falls, dust and other potential dangers on building sites.”
The event has been organised by the Working Well Together initiative – a partnership between HSE and the construction industry – which aims to improve health and safety in the sector.
