IN Hertfordshire during the past 12 months four construction workers fell to their deaths and others suffered permanent disabling injuries.

Falling from a great height is the biggest single cause of fatal and serious injuries in the construction industry. Much needs to be done by all parties, including clients, designers, site managers and construction workers, to reduce the human and financial toll of such accidents.

This is the uncompromising message given by Philip Poynter, principal inspector for Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulation of the construction sector in Hertfordshire.

Falling through fragile roof materials is the biggest killer.

Two men were killed falling through roof-lights during roof work and six other workers were seriously injured in separate incidents.

Ladders can be dangerous. Many injuries were caused from ladders which were unstable or inappropriate for the work in hand.

Such statistics shock and that is why precautions should take place, such as the use of properly constructed and maintained scaffold platforms with full guard rails and, if the provision of a safe working platform is not practicable, safety nets can be used for protection against falls, especially from roofs.

HSE wants those involved in the construction industry to be competent in health and safety and should allow adequate resources and time to undertake work safely.

Construction site workers are not relieved of their own responsibilities and should never take unnecessary chances in the workplace.

If the workplace is not safe from the risk of falling they should report this to their site manager.

Mr Philip Poynter is concerned to ensure during the next 12 months all involved in construction work take action to control the risks from falling on construction sites.

For details telephone Mr Poynter on 01582 444200.

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