HSE to focus on SME safety levels

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) will be increasing its attention on small-and medium-sized contractors as part of its work programme for next year.

HSE chief inspector for construction, Stephen Williams, told CJ: “The gap in safety performance between larger and smaller contractors is increasingly getting bigger. The split is now in the region of 75% of fatal accidents happening on smaller sites. Last year that split was closer at 65%.”

Williams also told CJ that the HSE, as part of its programme, would be monitoring the implementation of the CDM Regulations in April to make ensure they are making a “step change” in the industry.

[Contract Journal, 15 November 2006, p 6]