SECURING SAFETY OVER XMAS

Contractors reminded to ‘secure sites’ during shut-down

HSE is reminding contractors to secure sites over Xmas. Members of the public have been killed or injured when material has been being blown off site, scaffolding has collapsed or children have gained access to poorly protected sites.

Richard Boland HSE Head of Operations said:“Before closing the site for the holiday, contractors should carry out checks to ensure loose material is made safe and scaffolding is properly secured. It should be checked particularly after bad weather.

“Children often see poorly guarded sites as playgrounds, so contactors should do all they can to help prevent them gaining access in the first place. They should also ensure that potentially dangerous areas within the site, such as accessible scaffolding, buildings and deep excavations, are secure.

“Should the site be closed for a significant period, it may be sensible to arrange for regular checks to take place to ensure that the site remains safe and secure.”