HSE is undertaking its annual Refurbishment Initiative between 14 September and 9 October 2015.

During this period, inspectors will be targeting visits to sites where refurbishment work is being carried out, focussing on the main causes of accidents and ill-health in this high risk sector.

These include
 work at height
 site good order
 welfare
 exposure to carcinogens such as silica and asbestos
 manual handling
 noise
 vibration
 exposure to other hazardous substances

During last year’s campaign, 35% of all enforcement notices served were for health issues, and inspectors will again be prioritising the management and control of health risks.
Where serious breaches of legislation are found then immediate enforcement action will be taken, but inspectors will also be taking steps to secure a positive change in behaviour to ensure on-going compliance. They will also follow up health and safety breaches with clients and designers to reinforce their duties under CDM 2015 and to ensure that all duty holders with on site health and safety responsibilities understand and fulfil these.

At Keelagher Okey Klein, our team of Principal Designers and CDM Advisors are always on hand to offer advice and assistance so please give us a call on 01925 654158.