Getting the health and safety message drummed in to an industry as fragmented as construction is not easy.

Despite all the laudable initiatives that have been launched since the crisis summit meeting back in 2001, last year still saw 72 deaths across the sector.

The latest attempt to put an end to the tragedy of wasted lives on Britain’s construction sites is the Working Well Together campaign (pages 27-28). Instead of a talking shop for bosses, the roadshow delivers the safety message straight to the workers at the sharp end in a series of hands-on demonstrations. Over 7000 operatives will visit the roadshow this autumn.

There are signs of improvement. Given the rising workloads, last year’s injury figures were the lowest on record. Nevertheless, the industry needs to redouble its efforts if there is to be zero tolerance for fatalities.

The ECA and HVCA are playing their part, this month signing a pact to collaborate to improve site health and safety (page 14). One initiative will be the organisation of a national conference on the subject in 2006; the two associations will also be looking to develop assessment schemes for members. Working Well Together indeed.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor