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Industry: Construction

Introduction:

The Construction Industry is a major employer in Northern Ireland but unfortunately is has a poor accident record with 46 workers killed in accidents over the last 10 years. This figure is serious and action must be taken by everyone involved in the Industry.  Management influence is essential but the workers can have a major impact on health and safety standards on site.  This will require a change of behaviour.  Workers should insist on proper health and safety.  For example refuse to work at heights unless proper edge protection has been provided.  This change of attitude can be a driver for good.
Source - HSE (GB)
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Key Messages/Current Issues:

  • Statistics

    Analysis of major injury accidents over the last five years reveals 3 key causes:

    • ‘falls’;
    • ‘struck by’; and
    • ‘slip or trip’.

    These account for approximately 70% of the major injury accidents.

  • Readiness

    Include health and safety considerations when planning construction work.

    Method statements must be fit for purpose.

    Ensure those in supervisory control are competent and up to the job.

  • Planning

    Health and Safety Plans on construction sites should be brief, site specific and user friendly.

    Workers must be given greater involvement when preparing Method Statements so as to encourage ownership.

Key Legislation

Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007

Work at Height Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005

Control of Asbestos Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007

Control of Noise at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006

Control of Vibration at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005

Please note that these links are to the original legislation on the OPSI website, visitors should verify for themselves whether legislation is in force or whether it has been amended or repealed by subsequent legislation.