HSE Warns of danger to public from construction sites
Jan 1, 2010
The HSE recently issued a press release warning of the dangers to the public from construction sites. This warning follows the prosecution of a self- employed property developer, fined £17 500 and £9 500 costs, after a member of the public was killed by a collapsing wall accidentally knocked down by the bucket of an excavator.
The HSE inspector stated that the fatality could have been avoided with simple arrangements to fence off the footpath and to provide a safe access route.
It is important that for construction sites: Site specific risk assessments include risks to members of the public and visitors, as well as site workers; Safe methods of working are in place at all times to control risks beyond the site boundaries; Health & safety plans for the site include safe access routes and means of segregating members of the public. Where a project is notifiable under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007, such arrangements should be detailed in the Construction Phase Plan.
Wilby Ltd can offer advice and support in controlling construction site activities and ensuring compliance with health & safety legislation relating to construction work. Please contact Mark Dalton on 01422 398525 if you would like to discuss this issue further.
