HSE Assessing Sites Across London

The Health and Safety Executive’s current round of inspections of small construction sites across London is shedding light on potential risks to workplace safety, a lawyer has suggested.

Colin Ettinger, an injury lawyer based in Irwin Mitchell’s London office, said it was concerning that, so far, almost 25 per cent of small sites assessed as part of the inspections have had prohibition notices served on them.

Inspectors plan to continue their work by looking at sites involving working at height and manual handling across areas including Brent, Enfield, Lewisham and Bromley. The welfare facilities on offer to staff will also be considered.

Discussing the work, Colin Ettinger said: “The construction industry is one of the most dangerous professions when it comes to the risk of workplace injury, so it is vital that employers do everything they can to protect their staff from harm.

“It is, of course, a major concern that notices have been served to around a quarter of the sites inspected so far.

“However, I am hopeful that the figure will act as a deterrent and encourage all of those yet to be assessed to ensure they are doing their utmost to guarantee the welfare of their employees.”

Our accident at work claims team could help you secure compensation if you have been injured on a construction site. Find out more information on our Construction Accident Compensation page.