Government orders HSE probe into site deaths

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) could not tell Construction News (CN) why secretary of state James Purnell has demanded the inquiry, nor how far back it should go, but it is understood the industry will appoint a third party to help complete the work.

In a report to the HSE's board of directors, chief executive Geoffrey Podger said:'Within the construction division, scrutiny of fatal accidents is already carried out to inform the plan of work. HSE proposes to deliver this commission by, among other things, engaging independent external researchers to examine the underlying causes of fatal accidents in construction, including vulnerability, and identify levers for change both within and beyond the health and safety system.'

The industry's annual fatality rates have generally remained in their 70s in recent years. So far this year, sites run by Costain, Bovis Lend Lease and Morgan Est have suffered fatal accidents.

In related news, CN reports that a Scottish MP has proposed that contractors found guilty of death or fatal injury in Scotland should be forced to pay a fine using new shares rather than a cash penalty.

Bill Wilson of the Scottish National Party, claims the so-called equity fine will ensure that companies facing large fines do not lay off workers to generate the money. Under the scheme, the courts would order convicted firms to issue a set number of new shares, which would be sold and the proceeds paid to the court.