Construction Safety Blitz Under Way in Northern Ireland
The "clearest and most unambiguous warning yet" by safety authorities to Northern Ireland's construction industry coincides with an inspection push this month by the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland. Health and safety inspectors are visiting construction sites across the country in a blitz prompted by two workers' deaths in September and October falls.
"We are determined to stop unsafe working practices, especially those involving working at heights," said Ken Logan, leader of HSENI's Construction Group. "Where necessary, we will serve prohibition notices to stop work activities that are dangerous. This is our only option unless the Construction Industry puts its house in order. Contractors, therefore, be warned: If your name continues to appear on prohibition notices, you will be prosecuted."
HSENI handles enforcement of work safety and health standards -- with jurisdiction over entities covered by Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 -- as part of the government's Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment. It shares this responsibility nationally with 26 District Councils. For information, visit www.hseni.gov.uk/about_us.htm.