HSE issues North-west weather warning
Categories:
General Health and Safety |
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is urging construction companies in the north-west to protect workers and provide them with personal protective equipment (PPE), as severe weather conditions engulf the region.
Mark Cottriall, principal construction inspector for Lancashire and Cumbria says that strong winds and rain increase the risk of serious and fatal accidents.
"Employers and workers need to reassess the increased risks of what they are doing in light of the changed weather conditions. Worker safety is paramount and must come first," he comments.
He adds that construction workers must be extra vigilant, as unsecured items may be blown away, creating a potential risk to the public.
"Before recommencing work, all scaffolds and working platforms should be inspected by a competent person to ensure that their stability has not been compromised by the high winds," he added.
According to government advice, construction workers should be equipped with outdoor PPE, such as gloves and waterproof clothing - workers should also be provided with additional clothing if they are likely to get wet through continuous exposure to the elements.
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