HSE/NE/231/08 18 June 2008

Newcastle refurbishment sites targeted in safety crackdown

Construction firms carrying out refurbishment projects in Newcastle are being targeted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for the second time in five months in order to crackdown on dangerous working practices.

A series of random spot checks in February on 30 contractors in the city led to work being stopped on five sites because of concerns over work being carried out at height, a lack of appropriate asbestos checks and inadequately guarded woodwork machinery. In addition, three improvement notices were issued regarding good order of sites, welfare facilities and working at height.

Further spot checks are taking place this week with inspectors again addressing poor safety standards.

HSE Inspector Jonathan Wills said: "Last year 77 workers died in the construction industry in the UK and over half of these were in the refurbishment sector, where the number of deaths rose by 61%.

"When we inspected sites in February our inspectors were appalled at the willingness to ignore basic safety precautions. We will not tolerate poor standards and will take appropriate enforcement action proactively as well as when an accident occurs.

"Our advice to those who work in the refurbishment sector is to plan work, use competent workers and if working at height use the right equipment and use it safely."

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
• The workforce is made aware of risk control measures.

More information is available at http://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/tripsandfalls/index.htm

Public enquiries

Call HSE's InfoLine, Tel: 08701 545500, or write to: HSE InfoLine, Caerphilly Business Park, Caerphilly CF83 3GG.

Press enquiries

Journalists only: to Jackie Woods: Tel: 0191 202 3604; or Jill Barber: Tel: 0191 202 3609.

HSE information and press releases can be accessed on the Internet: http://www.hse.gov.uk/

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF THE HSE BY COI NEWS AND PR (NORTH EAST)