Statistics released by the Health and Safety Executive reveal a significant drop in the number of work related deaths: the lowest figure since records began. But construction is still the most dangerous sector to work in.

Fifty nine workers in the construction industry suffered fatal injuries during the year 2005/06. This is ten less deaths than the previous 12 months and amounts to the lowest figure on record.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) statistics show that falls from height still account for over half of all fatal injuries, after which, being struck by a moving or falling object is the next most common fatality (14%); followed by being struck by a moving vehicle (11%); being trapped by something collapsing or overturning (8%); and by coming into contact with electricity or electrical discharge (8%). In the 2005/06 period seven deaths were recorded during the installation of electrical wiring and fittings.

Stephen Williams, HSE chief inspector of construction, said: “These figures are very good and I am pleased with progress so far. It is positive news that the HSE in partnership with all in industry – employers, unions and stakeholder bodies – are driving down fatalities on sites. However, we should be cautious. One year’s figures should not be viewed in isolation and it is too early to say whether the reduction in fatalities represents the significant behaviour change the industry has been promising.

“Let us not be complacent, one death is too many.”

Williams’ words were reiterated by the overall fatal injury statistics released by the Health and Safety Commission, which showed that construction still suffers more deaths per annum than any other sector. The 59 reported were a significant part of a total of 212 in 2005/06. This figure was down from 223 in 2004/05.The percentage of fatal injuries to direct employees fell to 42, from 55 in 2004/05. However, the number of self-employed deaths rose from 14 to 17, a worrying trend.

John Lacey, past president of the Institution of Occupational Health and Safety, said: “The UK construction industry has moved forward in leaps and bounds over the last 10-15 years but we are still killing and injuring far too many people. It is incumbent on all those in the industry to create a culture of safety where preventive action is the cornerstone of working practice.

m The HSE has issued a safety alert to those involved in lift installation and maintenance following the recent death of a lift engineer who was crushed while working on a lift supported on temporary suspension arrangements in central London.

The HSE says that procedures should be checked and taken into account against its raft of information.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor