Arrigate

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has cautioned construction companies to ensure periodic inspections at their work sites even during lull periods. This would help the companies keep a check on unauthorised entry of persons at their worksites, which is known to pose a grave risk owing to the dangerous nature of these sites.

HSE, expressing concern about the yearly feature where many children get seriously injured on worksites, states that there could be an increase in these figures due to many projects being stalled, given the current economic recession.

Ms Jeanette Reuben who heads the HSE’s operations for construction in Scotland explaining her concerns feels that construction sites are likely to attract children playing outdoors during their summer vacations, which could lead to a dangerous and situation -hence building site safety is a necessity.

Ms Reuben stated that given the current recessionary trends in the economy, construction sites are abandoned and there is no one to monitor trespassers. Despite security fencing all around the site, there is always a possibility of children finding their way inside these sites. These work sites pose imminent danger due to the presence of scaffolding, electricity wires, hazardous building materials etc. Workplace Law Group specialises in employment law, health and safety and premises management. - click on NEBOSH General Certificate to ensure your organisation meets its basic commitments to providing a safe work environment.

HSE has advised companies to ensure foolproof security of the worksites to deter public from gaining entry, which also involves relocating all equipment like ladders and scaffolding that are likely to provide easy access to children. A continuous monitoring of the security fencing to detect a breach would also help curtail such accidents.

HSE also asked construction supervisors to cease work when children enter their premises. They should also ensure safe keep of equipment and stores at the end of the day.