HSE appoints Philip White as new chief inspector of construction

The Health and Safety Executive has named Philip White, its former head of construction operations in London, as its new chief inspector for construction.

White, who is due to take over next year, will replace Stephen Williams becomes director of field operations for London and the Olympics.

Construction union UCATT welcomed the appointment. Alan Ritchie, general secretary, said: “Phil White has a tough job ahead of him. Construction deaths and injuries are far too high.

"UCATT are looking forward to working closely with Phil, just as we did with his predecessor Stephen Williams in order to maximise safety for construction workers.”

In 2007/08 there were 72 construction deaths, in 2006/7 the figure was even higher with 79 fatalities. The latest statistics also show a steep rise in the number of serious injuries in construction.