HSE issues scaffold safety warning
The need for effective safety training is strong in all industries, but it is arguably particularly vital in relation to certain activities, like scaffolding. In order to minimise risk in circumstances like this, people often take advantage of Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme courses.
Indeed, demand for SSSTS training may rise yet further among those involved in scaffolding. Recently, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that firms in the West Midlands, Worcestershire and Warwickshire are being put under the spotlight for three weeks as part of a drive to reduce deaths and injuries.
The HSE noted that between 2006 and 2011, there were three fatalities and 250 injuries involving fixed or mobile scaffolds in the area.
Inspectors from the organisation are travelling to sites where scaffolds are in place to check on them. The experts will look at whether or not jobs that involve working at height have been properly planned to ensure that effective safety measures are in place and that equipment is correctly installed, inspected and maintained.
Commenting on the issue, principal inspector Jo Anderson stated: “Scaffolding still poses a significant risk to those involved in its construction and dismantling as well as those who use it. Too many workers needlessly die because work was not properly planned or the equipment was incorrectly installed or used.
“Over the next three weeks, inspectors will target sites where poor scaffolding is putting workers at risk and when necessary take enforcement action.”
By making the most of Site Supervisors Safety Training Scheme courses, firms stand to boost safety levels.
These days, accessing such SSSTS training is straightforward and the programmes are intended for anyone who has or is about to acquire supervisory responsibilities. As well as health and safety, the programmes cover welfare and environmental issues. Also, they go over the relevant legal responsibilities.
