10.05.2006

Lord Hunt thanks UK access industry

Lord Hunt, UK minister of health and safety, thanked the member's of the Access Industry Forum at its conference today, for its efforts to improve the safety of people working at height.

Addressing the delegates at the Forum’s conference the minister said: "Reducing the number of falls from height remains a priority for the HSE, 53 workers died during 2004/5 when they fell from a height. Last year, over 2000 workers suffered a major injury as a result of a fall from a 'low height', those below head level.
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Lord Hunt (R) at the Health&Safety expo and Access Forum seminar

"The Work at Height Regulations are now a year old. The number of podium steps hired across the country has increased significantly, demonstrating that many people are using safer equipment. A great deal of effort has gone into educating employers and employees about the Regulations and much of this work has involved AIF members, you have risen to the health and safety challenge by producing safer access equipment and making better training available. I thank you for your contribution.

"As part of HSE's commitment to reduce the number of fall incidents, 'Height Aware', a campaign to raise awareness of the risks maintenance workers face when working at height, will be launched later this month.

"Most falls are preventable and when workers fall so can profits. Employers of, and those working, as maintenance workers, electricians, painters and decorators, plumbers and carpenters should plan work properly. Always assess the risks, choose the right equipment and ensure all work at height is carried out by those competent to do so."

The Access Industry forum is a grouping of industry associations, including International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), Association of Technical and Lighting Access Specialists (ATLAS) and the British Ladder Manufacturers' (BLMA).and Prefabricated Access Suppliers and Manufacturers Association (PASMA).