The publication of the HSE's discussion document Revitalising health and safety in construction is welcomed for its focus on the need to adopt a step change in improved health and safety.
A key element will be increased awareness 'on the ground' that health and safety relies more on communication and co-operation than generating site paperwork or transferring risk.

All clients should make health and safety a priority. They must work with the contractor to ensure that all information is available and that the on-site requirements for good health and safety working practices are taken into account. Contractors must take responsibility for on-site health and safety and not have the attitude that it is someone else's concern.

  The ECS is introducing a health and safety assessment as a requirement for holding an ECS card. This test will become mandatory for renewed cards from February 2003.

The Zero Accident Potential (ZAP) initiative launched by the ECA provides guidance on how to adopt a positive health and safety culture. As part of its ongoing programme, a health and safety conference will be held next year. We'll keep you informed about details.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor