May 14 2007
Construction workers in Llanelli will be getting some tips on working in safety from the Working Well Together "White Van" Roadshow which is touring building sites across South Wales this month.
The roadshow visits various construction sites in Llanelli on 14th and 15th May and will offer advice to workers on the sites on any health and safety issues raised, which can range from working at height to safe use of ladders and on-site transport. All participants will be given a free "goody-bag" containing practical items for those who work in construction donated by the industry themselves, and workers have an opportunity to enter a prize draw.
HSE construction inspector Wayne Williams said: "Around 2.2 million people work in Britain's construction industry, making it the country's biggest industry. It is also one of the most dangerous. In the last 25 years, over 2,800 people have died from injuries they received as a result of construction work and many more have been injured or made ill.
"Often simple steps can make a big difference, which is then reflected in reduced sickness days, a significantly lower risk of enforcement action from HSE, and better productivity."
The roadshow is run by the South Wales Working Well Together group, a partnership of people including the Federation of Master Builders, local authorities, Envirowise, as well as a number of large construction companies working in the region. It aims to promote best practice and encouraging everyone in the industry to take action to improve standards of health and safety.