In recent months the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) have been carrying out many spot check visits to sites and work premises to ensure the safety of contractors and staff.
I understand for many companies this is very stressful, but we need to make sure that every single contractor and member of staff goes home in 1 piece – safely.
So many of the sites I visit are very dangerous and it is very worrying for everyone. Some of the main building contractors are carrying out on the spot fines for any contractors seen to be breaking HSE regulations. Some of the sites I visit are very proactive and carry out regular training sessions for all contractors, company directors and the safety team – I just love this and as I write this I am attending 2 this month with clients.
Some of the topics they have highlighted recently are:
Manual Handling
Chemicals
Dust
Working at Height
Manual Handling
This is making sure that the correct unloading and carrying techniques are correct.
- Are there trolleys?
- Are the trolleys suitable?
- Have the staff had manual handling training?
- Is there a risk assessment in place for the staff to read, understand and follow?
- Is there enough staff to carry out the task safely?
Manual handling is anything that is carried, pulled, pushed, lifted or moved in anyway. Many of the materials involved on sites are heavy so this is very important to get this correct. So many injuries happen during this work process and can leave staff off work injured and recovering for many months
Chemicals
There are many chemicals used on sites. Some for cleaning and some used in the work processes. There needs to be a risk assessment on each chemical and this includes dusts, fumes and gases. The storage of the chemicals is also very important. Chemicals should be stored in a metal locked cabinet when not being used. The correct PPE is required for chemical use. The staff must also of had some training on the chemical use and the location of the risk assessment. It is also recommended that the staff sign to confirm understanding and acceptance. Refresher training on any chemicals is also a great idea and also any new additional ones. Another important part is the maintenance and general looking after the PPE. Things like what to do if it is broken or needs replacing.
Dust
As above a risk assessment is required as is training. One huge factor on site is how to manage the dust in the air. What kind of extraction or ventilation is required? How are contractors going to keep the areas clear of dust particles. Again, training and sign offs are required.
Working at Height
This is one of the highest accident numbers at the moment and is a very high-risk activity too. All working at height work requires a risk assessment and certified training for working at height. There have been many issues with companies not being compliant in this area recently.
