03/12/2015
In a recent month-long initiative, the HSE targeted small refurbishment companies and found 46% of them did not meet the required standard for health and safety measures.
During the campaign, 692 enforcement notices and 983 notifications of contravention had to be served where there was a material breach of health and/or safety.
Workplace Health and Safety Risks
When investigating refurbishment companies, the HSE inspectors found that many organisations did not have adequate health and safety measures in place to protect individuals working ‘at height’, and some workers were routinely exposed to silica dust and asbestos, both substances which can cause long-term illnesses, often with fatal consequences.
Many Companies Doing a Great Job of Managing Health and Safety in the Workplace
The HSE was at pains to point out that many small construction companies were doing an incredibly good job managing risk and implementing correct health and safety procedures.
In a recent press release, Peter Baker, the Health and Safety Executive’s Chief Inspector of Construction stated: “HSE inspectors found lots of good examples of small sites carrying out work safely, proving it can be done. Larger construction sites accepted the challenge a few years ago and have made big improvements, which all of the industry can learn from. My message to smaller businesses is don’t wait for an accident or visit from an inspector before you make the change, but act now and learn from your colleagues’ example.”
How Small Refurbishment Companies Can Improve Their Health and Safety Measures
Complying with health and safety guidelines and implementing adequate risk management procedures saves both time and money in the long run. Workplace injuries cost small companies dearly in terms of lost productivity, HSE inspections, fines, loss of employee morale and negative media attention.
Clear, concise legal advice will assist small companies in managing their health and safety compliance issues in a cost-efficient manner. Fisher Scoggins Waters are a London based law firm who are experts in construction, manufacturing and engineering matters. If you require health and safety law advice, please phone us on 0207 993 6960.