New construction body to cut exposure to key health risks

Plans for the Occupational Health Support Pilot Scheme, called Constructing Better Health, have taken another step forward following the creation and first meeting of the Action Forum tasked with bringing about the scheme.

Constructing Better Health aims to offer employees and employers best-practice management solutions to reduce exposure to key health risks. 

It will allow construction employers to receive free on-site risk assessments and provide a source of free advice and guidance for employers and workers, as well as a gateway to further specialist support, if required.

The construction industry has by far the worst rate of musculo-skeletal disorders of all industries and high rates of other illnesses such as noise induced hearing loss, hand arm vibration syndrome, asbestos and cement dermatitis.

The Action Forum will be seeking funding for the establishment of Constructing Better Health and began this process by endorsing the idea of engaging a funding consultant to investigate the best way to raise funds for the pilot scheme.

Chris McEwen, from the National Federation of Builders, has been appointed chair and spokesperson for the project.