This month as part of an initiative to reduce the number of slips and trips on construction sites, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are carrying out a nationwide "Watch Your Step" inspection programme. The construction industry reports around 3,000 slips or trips every year and over 1,000 workers fracture or dislocate bones. It is likely that the true figures are much higher. Most incidents are caused by corridors and stairways being obstructed with tools, materials and waste as well as footpaths not properly levelled or cables trailing across pedestrian routes. During a similar inspection in October 2005, the HSE took enforcement action at around 11% of the sites they visited.
In support of the initiative, organisations such as UCATT, TGWU, NASC, NCF and CECA will be distributing free good order on site "toolbox talk" packs to their members, which contain a DVD, booklet and poster. These are also available from the HSE website.
