They are particularly targeting health and welfare issues, including issues such as noise and vibration, manual handling, dermatitis, welfare, and correct use of personal protective equipment.
HSE inspectors will make unannounced visits to construction sites across the West Midlands conurbation and in parts of Worcestershire and Warwickshire. They will be checking to ensure high-risk activities, such as work with vibrating power tools, are being done safely. They will also check welfare facilities on site, such as the provision of hot running water.
Jo Anderson, HSE principal inspector for the West Midlands Construction Division said: “Too many people die every year on Britain’s construction sites as a result of entirely avoidable incidents but it is just as important to protect workers from the causes of ill health, such as unnecessary exposure to asbestos or silica dust, which can have fatal or debilitating consequences.
“This initiative provides a chance to engage with construction firms to help them understand what they need to do, so they can put in place the practical measures needed to keep people safe. In many cases, simple changes to working practices can make all the difference, and even save lives.
“However, if we find evidence that workers are being unnecessarily and irresponsibly put at risk, we will not hesitate to take robust action. Companies who deliberately cut corners and put their workers or others at risk will feel the full weight of the law.
“Given that one in three sites failed a recent clampdown on refurbishment projects in the region, it’s important to keep up momentum and target problem areas such as not providing basic welfare facilities for workers.”
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