With 60% of all HSE visits now resulting in a Fee for Intervention invoice (currently £124 per hour) its clear that you need to be aware of what priorities the HSE is setting for the next 12 months.
It’s clear that the focus has shifted away from strategic issues and projects to freeing up resources for more inspections – which in turn will mean more fee’s from intervention invoicing.
Key areas being targeted are;
- asbestos removal work;
- small sites/projects;
- refurbishment;
- major projects/large contractors and clients;
- other local priorities
Please note: smaller sites contributed 70% of the 50 fatalities in 2011/12 and HSE will now commit 35% of its resources to be put into inspecting smaller projects
Once on site Inspectors will review any evident risk to life before considering the following five generic issues;
work at height;
asbestos risks;
provision of welfare facilities;
site conditions (good order);
respiratory risks and adequacy of PPE use.
Poor standards in any of these areas is almost certain to land you with a bill for the inspector’s time under FFI so make sure your staff are updated with this information.
One word of warning on hard hats too. The Construction (Head Protection) Regulations 1989 have recently been repealed and HSE will be keen to ensure that use of protective helmets is not affected, the requirement of the regulation is still there, its covered under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 .
Don’t forget the basics and also the role of management in making adequate arrangements for health and safety.
HSE will also be looking at the following;
- the effectiveness of leadership by directors and senior managers;
- the management of health risks;
- involving workers in site safety;
- the competency of organisations and individuals;
- the management of temporary works including a focus on how the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 are being applied
If you need help or advice on health and safety please contact us or request a call back – or call and speak to a friendly expert on 01453 800100.
