HSE issues carbon monoxide warning as it takes over Reading container deaths investigation
10:20 15 Feb 2007
|
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has reminded site workers of the dangers of using equipment powered by internal combustion engines in confined or poorly ventilated spaces, as it takes over the investigation into the deaths of three men on a Reading housing development last year.
Subcontractor tilers Kirpal Singh (30), Menjit Singh (35) and Gurdeep Singh Deol (21) died in December 2006 on the St James Homes Kennet Island development, apparently from carbon monoxide poisoning.
The carbon monoxide is believed to come from a generator, which was being run inside a steel storage container. Contrary to some reports at the time of the incident, HSE said it did not appear that the men were sleeping inside the container.
HSE warned that construction sites should also beware that (flueless) open flame heaters fuelled by natural gas or Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG), require an adequate supply of fresh air to prevent formation of high concentrations of carbon monoxide.
The HSE has now taken the lead for the investigation from Thames Valley Police. Inspector of Health and Safety Karen Morris said: "This is a tragic accident which could have been prevented by taking simple precautions. People need to be aware that plant and equipment powered by engines are potential killers if they are not used with adequate ventilation."
In a statement, St James Homes said: "Following the recent tragic accident in Reading, we support the announcement from the HSE to remind workers in the construction industry of the potential dangers of using equipment in confined spaces, from which high concentrations of carbon monoxide can form.
"A clearer understanding of such dangers could only help prevent any similar future accidents occurring. We echo the sentiments of Ms Morris, that all construction workers should be made fully aware that plant and equipment powered by engines are potential killers if they are not used with adequate ventilation, even for short periods of time."