Safety Smart: Monthly Update October 2021

If you missed out on our last newsletter – never fear! we’ve pulled together all the information in this blog post and there’s plenty to catch up on!

World Mental Health Day: ‘Mental health in an unequal world’

Each year, on 10 October, World Mental Health Day aims to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health. The theme this year, ‘mental health in an unequal world’, has been set by the World Federation for Mental Health.

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Health and Safety Executive cracks down on dust: October 2021

HSE’s inspectors across Great Britain will be targeting construction firms to check that their health standards are up to scratch during a month-long inspection initiative, starting on Monday 4 October 2021. 

This year inspections will focus on respiratory risks and occupational lung disease, looking at the control measures businesses have in place to protect their workers’ lungs from construction dust including silica, asbestos and wood dust. This is part of HSE’s longer term health and work strategy to improve health within the construction industry. 

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Updated guidance for crane users 

The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has released updated information regarding notification for the use of cranes.

The CAA has announced that from 6 September 2021, crane users must notify them of any crane that is above 100m above ground level, regardless of proximity to aerodromes or height of surrounding structures or trees.Read More How to conduct an effective accident investigation 

Andy Farrall CMIOSH, health and safety accident investigator, explains how to conduct an effective accident investigation interview. 

Contrary to popular belief, the aim of an accident investigation interview is not to find who is guilty and who can be blamed.

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Case Studies

Contractor prosecuted after COVID spot check reveals multiple breaches

A construction contractor has been fined after multiple health and safety issues were identified during a proactive COVID-spot check at a site in Manchester.
 

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Contractor fined after employee falls from scaffolding

A shopfitting company has been fined after an employee suffered multiple fractures after falling fifteen feet from scaffolding.

An employee of TA Knox Shopfitters Ltd was working from a tower scaffold at the front of the Footasylum Store in the Trafford Centre, Manchester.

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Engineering company fined after worker diagnosed with occupational asthma

Lantern Engineering Ltd has been sentenced for health breaches after workers were exposed to metalworking fluid (MWF).

MWF is hazardous to health, and exposure can cause health conditions including irritation of the skin/dermatitis, occupational asthma, bronchitis and irritation of the upper respiratory tract.

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