HSE urges caution after the storms
January 21, 2005
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has urged North East businesses, and anyone else involved in clear-up and repair work following the recent damaging storms, to think carefully before they start.
The HSE says that for many the temptation to replace missing roof tiles or chop down a blown over tree might mean people cut corners to get the job done quickly.
HSE construction inspector Bruno Porter said there were many situations on farms, industrial premises and around the home where the urge to carry out repairs quickly may lead people to take unnecessary risks.
He urged people to plan for safety and remember that working at height and work involving chainsaws are two of the most hazardous activities that regularly cause serious and fatal injuries in both agriculture and construction - and these in turn are the most dangerous of UK industries.
He said that windblown trees are very dangerous to deal with and chainsaws require trained operatives.
The HSE is therefore urging people not to attempt the work if they are unsure about how it can be done safely.
The HSE says points to consider before work begins include deciding what the working platform is going to be. Mobile elevated work platforms and scaffolding are safer and often faster than using ladders.
In addition the HSE said that anyone engaging tradesmen or contractors should make sure they are qualified to do the job and also that they explain how they are going to do the work safely.
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