Asbestos was a decisive factor behind the closure of some construction sites in Teesside after they failed to implement necessary safety measures to shield their workers from the risk. The closures were part of a countrywide HSE initiative prompted by the high rate of accidents in the refurbishment sector.
The officials of the HSE visited fifty-eight sites to look into the matter and found that fifteen of the sites did not sufficiently manage the risk of workers falling from the scaffolding. Such sites were promptly served with notices from the HSE.
HSE spokesperson, Rob Hirst told reporters that the HSE inspectors, in their effort to find out the reasons behind these accidents, talked to the workers, principal contractors and working contractors in the refurbishment sector. He was pleased to say that the outcome was encouraging as most sites were found to be following the safety regulations.
However, Mr. Hirst said that the HSE would continue to target sites where dangerous practices are continuing, and HSE inspectors would take all necessary actions against them. He said that he hoped people in the sector would realise that it was better to take precautions rather than dealing with disastrous consequences later on.
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During the initiative, the inspectors tried to find out whether the sites took all the safety measures regarding working at height, installation and maintenance of the equipment used in the site, and the quality and maintenance of staircases and walkways. They also made queries regarding enforcement of the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 in the sites and the proper training of workers with regards to risk management.
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