07-03-2008
HSE criticises Derbyshire refurbishment sector
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The performance of the Derbyshire construction industry's refurbishment sector has received criticism from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Following the completion of a number of spot checks, the HSE has confirmed that employee lives were at risk at nearly 50 per cent of the area's construction sites, which may employ tradesmen such as builders, plumbers and electricians. In total, the HSE was obliged to issue seven enforcement notices.
"We stopped work on site immediately during seven inspections (by serving a prohibition notice) because we felt there was a real possibility that life would be lost or ruined through serious injury," said Samantha Peace, principal inspection for construction in the east Midlands. "Our inspectors were disappointed at the blatant disregard for basic health and safety."
Last month, a total of 66 refurbishment sites across the east Midlands were inspected by the HSE. In Derbyshire, 16 sites were examined by the organisation. In partnership with local authorities, the HSE enforces the work of the Health and Safety Commission.
