HSE Releases Notice On Risks

The release of a new Safety Alert reminding businesses to be aware of the dangers of so-called ‘hot work’ has been welcomed by a leading accident at work claims expert.

David Urpeth, a Partner at Irwin Mitchell, said the release of the notice from the Health and Safety Executive will help to ensure that employees regularly undertaking welding, flame cutting or grinding are given the necessary protection.

The alert calls on firms to particularly bear in mind the dangers of carrying out such tasks on containers which are or have been used to hold flammable or combustible substances.

Its release comes after two people were killed in separate incidents while cutting up drums.

Backing the notice, workplace injury lawyer David Urpeth said: “Employees in a number of industries are often involved in ‘hot work’, but the fatalities suggest that some firms are not aware of all of the potential risks.

“This alert, and the reasons behind its release, should go some way to encouraging businesses to take another look at the processes they have in place over such activities.

“It is vital that all employers must understand the importance of health and safety, as well as the potential consequences of failing to do so.”

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