Safety spot-checks on the rise for construction sector
Construction companies across Shropshire are being urged to ensure they are meeting their health and safety obligations in the wake of an official crackdown on unsafe building sites.
Shrewsbury-based consultancy Building Trust in Safety Ltd has warned firms that the Health and Safety Executive is stepping up the number of random spot-checks it carries out in a bid to stamp out poor working practices throughout the industry.
Under the clampdown, safety inspectors are able to turn up on site unannounced, and demand to check that all necessary precautions have been put in place to minimise a variety of potential risks, including working at height, exposure to asbestos and other harmful materials, and preventing slips, trips and falls.
Ruth Ross, Managing Director of Building Trust in Safety, revealed: “The construction sector employs around two million workers nationwide, yet it remains one of the country’s most dangerous industries. Fifty workers died in fatal accidents last year, with thousands more suffering serious injuries, while more than 2.5 million working days were lost due to sickness or ill-health.
“In such challenging economic circumstances, some construction companies may be tempted to put profits before health and safety by trying to cut corners. With the increase in random safety inspections, the likelihood is that they are now going to get caught out, which could lead to hefty fines for non-compliance.”
To help construction companies make sure they are providing a safe environment for their workforce, Building Trust in Safety is inviting local firms to take advantage of its free safety audit service, which will help them to develop and deliver a comprehensive action plan so that they meet all necessary legal policies and procedures.
“Many of the tragic accidents that occur on building sites can be avoided by taking simple precautions, and our audit is an easy way to put the necessary preventative measures in place. To see if your company is eligible for our free health and safety audit, please call on 01939 200 221 or email ruth@btsltd.co.uk,” Ruth Ross concluded.
Building Trust in Safety Ltd was launched in 1999 and is now one of the most respected health and safety consultancies in the UK. Offering a comprehensive and practical solution to all health and safety needs across all industry sectors, Building Trust in Safety’s team of dedicated specialists provides an extensive range of services, enabling businesses to flourish without fear.
