Inspections target injuries

HSE inspectors are carrying out 1,000 inspections to examine how building workers are moving heavy or bulky materials. Beginning last month and continuing into November, the enforcement initiative will “check the action businesses are taking to ensure their workers are being protected”. A physical job on a building site should not result in aches, pains and strains that affect every part of workers’ lives, says the regulator.

With 40,000 construction workers suffering a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) each year, causing years of agonising aches and pains, the HSE is reminding employers that the law requires them to prevent the ill health of their workers.

Moving and handling risks should be considered and prevented where possible at the design stage. Employers should talk to workers about controlling the risks before the work starts, and they should make sure the right training, aids and equipment are in place in to prevent injuries.

“Risks must be managed where they can’t be prevented, and risk management arrangements must be reviewed frequently,” said HSE head of construction Sarah Jardine. Everyone in the industry, should be aware of the risks and put appropriate measures in place, she said.