Occupational Health Issue, a Cause of Serious Concern
Construction sites pose serious threat to safety of workers and it is imperative that construction companies have protective measures in place. Millions of workers all over the world are involved in the construction industry and are exposed to building materials that can be serious health hazards.
Construction worker safety is of utmost priority. It has been found that asbestos is one such building material that can cause a number of diseases that can be fatal even. The HSE estimates that over 4,000 workers lose their lives annually due to exposure to asbestos. It is of prime concern then to put measures in place for proper removal and disposal of asbestos.
Norwegian Homes Limited, a
Inspectors found asbestos fibres in ashes of a bonfire and insulation boards under a caravan. They also unearthed polythene bags of asbestos fibres. It was clearly negligence on the part of Norwegian Homes as they had failed to conduct a proper and thorough survey of the site prior to demolition. It was the responsibility of the construction company to remove and dispose the asbestos in a suitable manner.
The company pleaded guilty on 26 May 2010 and was orderd to pay a fine of £4,500 by Truro Magistrates Court for failing to undertake a proper survey for the presence of asbestos at the demolition site. It also ordered £11,959 in additional costs.
HSE Inspector Martin Lee stressed upon the importance of health hazards at construction sites and asbestos related diseases in particular.
Workplace Law offer IOSH Courses all the advice and information needed for managers to successfully manage appropriate policies and procedures and improve upon management skills to help find the best ways to lead and promote health and safety, and therefore meet its legal obligations. - see IOSH e-learning - for information on their web-based training course accredited by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health.
