Construction sites are being targeted by the HSE as part of a health inspection initiative supported by the 'Work Right Construction: Your health. Your future' campaign. The campaign is raising awareness of health issues in relation to moving and handling materials to improve the long-term health of those working in construction.
Starting on Monday 3 October 2022, site inspections focusing on moving and handling construction materials will be checking employers and workers know the risks, plan their work and are using sensible control measures to protect workers from injuries and aches, pain and discomfort in joints, muscles and bones known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
Construction work, by its very nature, involves lifting, carrying and handling activities that can cause significant, often long-term injuries if the risks are not managed effectively. Construction workers have a high risk of developing aches, pains and discomfort in muscles and joints, referred to as musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). An estimated 40,000 construction workers suffered work-related MSDs last year. These injuries can have a serious impact on workers’ ability to perform tasks; their quality of life; and in some cases, their ability to stay in work and earn a living. Many can and do suffer from long-term pain and discomfort. Working days lost through MSDs have huge financial implications for businesses, as well as time spent to recruit and train replacement workers if needed. These injuries can often be reoccurring, so it’s important to get the control measures right to protect workers’ long-term health, wellbeing and ability to remain in work.
For more information and free resources visit workright.campaign.gov.uk/campaigns/your-health-your-future/workright-construction-your-health-your-future-employers/