The Content Maker

In a move towards greater public safety, construction firms closed for the summer have been directed by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) to conduct periodic checks on their sites to see that people are not venturing anywhere near them.

More than anything, the HSE is concerned about children being seriously injured while playing at such construction sites. The HSE fears that there will be an increase in such accidents this year, as more sites are shutting down due to the economic downslide.

HSE Head of Operations for Construction in Scotland, Jeanette Reuben said that while it is understandable that children will want to enjoy and play outside during their summer holidays, we as adults should ensure their safety. She added that construction sites offer interesting possibilities for play and exploration to children and hence pose a great risk as they are naturally attracted towards such places.

The number of non-operational construction sites is increasing, as many are shutting down due to the recession, and such sites do not have workers on duty to stop curious children from entering. Building site safety must be considered; strong security fencing around construction sites is necessary, as weak fencing will not be able to keep children away. Scaffolding, excavations, fragile surfaces and construction debris are potential hazards for vulnerable children on such sites.

Prior to shutting down a site, the workers should ensure that all ladders, temporary platforms and practically anything that might enable children to explore the site are removed from the premises. Further, the workers and construction employers should undertake periodic visits to the abandoned sites to ensure that fencing has not been broken. Make sure your organisation is aware of its health and safety obligations and remains compliant with Construction (Design and Management) Regulations for major building, maintenance or refurbishment work; click on CDM training operated by Workplace Law.

According to the HSE, construction managers should stop work the moment they spot children approaching a site. In addition, it is their duty to store equipment and materials at a secure place before they leave for the day.