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Proper management of health and business documentation is not just a legal requirement but a vital element for creating an efficient and safe working environment. Effective management guarantees that all essential measures are observed, risks are assessed and managed, and all incidents are well documented and handled. This blog discusses handling health and safety documentation [...]

Whenever we are working at height on the construction site, scaffolding becomes an important component. Not only while building but even when maintaining or wherever we need to work at height. Scaffolding is seen as a safe work platform, but some risks are inherited and cannot be ignored. This blog discusses how the safety of [...]

The role of a construction consultant is very important in any construction project. Whether you are starting a small project of renovation or a large infrastructure development, the right consultant can make you achieve your goals efficiently and effectively. Construction consultants bring a wealth of experience, expertise and knowledge to the project for making it [...]

Posted: 5-01-2021 Updated: 18-04-2024 Safety stands as the foundational component of every successful project in the construction and consultation industry. As one of the leading consultancy firms, we have always fostered a culture of safety excellence and have embraced CHAS (Construction Health and Safety) Accreditation as an authentication of its solid dedication to ensuring secure [...]

In today's dynamic work environment, it is necessary to ensure that employees are safe and well-kept. One of the most effective strategies for achieving this goal is on-site safety inspections. This inspection helps identify potential hazards, assess risks and implement preventive measures. On-site safety inspection forms a strong foundation for a safe and sound workspace [...]

The history of safety standards in construction is a tale of lessons learned through trial and tragedy. In the not-so-distant past, construction sites were often hazardous environments, characterised by lax safety protocols and minimal oversight. Workers faced daily hazards without the protection of modern safety gear or comprehensive training programs. Accidents were tragically common, resulting [...]

Is your workplace safety up to standard? If not, this blog post is just for you. Safety has become a paramount concern for organisations across various industries. The importance of maintaining a safe working environment cannot be overstated, and businesses are constantly seeking ways to enhance their safety protocols. One such avenue is obtaining safe [...]

Are you a small builder? Then, you must have experienced the thrill of seeing a project come to life, brick by brick, beam by beam. But with the satisfaction of creation comes the constant pressure of risk. From workplace injuries to safety hazards, the construction industry is fraught with challenges that can threaten your business [...]

In the demanding realm of construction, prioritising mental well-being is crucial for builders, employees, and workers alike. According to recent HSE data, mental health-related issues in the UK construction sector have risen by 20% in the last year alone, underscoring the urgency of addressing this pressing concern. This blog explores the nuances of mental health [...]

Safety stands as the cornerstone of construction, a vital aspect ensuring both worker well-being and project success. Over centuries, safety practices within this industry have undergone an evolutionary journey, adapting to technological advancements and lessons learned from past incidents. Understanding the historical narrative of construction safety unveils the profound impact of past experiences on present-day [...]

Construction site safety is of high importance in the construction industry. It's not just about compliance; it's about saving lives and preventing accidents. Thus, knowing the key principles of construction site safety is essential for architects, builders, safety managers, and the overall leadership at a construction site. With this blog, we aim to address this [...]

Construction sites are bustling hubs of activity, with heavy machinery, workers, and various materials coming together to create impressive structures. Amidst this activity, one paramount concern stands out – the importance of construction safety. The construction industry is thriving in the United Kingdom. Safeguarding the well-being of workers and the public is not just a […]

Construction sites are dynamic and potentially hazardous environments. In addition to the usual safety concerns, fire safety is a critical aspect that requires meticulous planning, organisation, and implementation. Ensuring fire safety on a construction site is a shared responsibility involving multiple parties, with the overarching goal of protecting lives and property. In this blog, we'll [...]

As a tradesperson, your focus is primarily on providing exceptional services to your clients and growing your business. However, one aspect that is often overlooked but crucial to your long-term success is health and safety. To ensure a safe work environment, protect your workforce, and avoid potential complications in the future, it is wise to [...]

It is crucial to prioritise the safety and well-being of workers on a construction site. Accidents can happen, and having trained first aiders readily available can be the difference between life and death. In this blog, we will delve into the topic of how many first aiders are needed on a construction site, considering the [...]

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fibre that has been widely used in building construction and various industries for its desirable properties, including fire resistance, durability, and insulation. It was commonly found in building materials, including insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, cement products, and more. Asbestos has been used for over 4500 years. Its use became [...]

In the bustling world of construction, safety should always remain a top priority. With the potential risks and hazards present on a construction site, it is crucial to maintain a systematic approach to documenting accidents and incidents. In the United Kingdom, one effective tool for recording such occurrences is an accident report book. This blog [...]

A recent bulletin from the Health and Safety Executive advises on the continued targeted respiratory health inspections in the workplace. The exposure of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust is an on-going issue within the Construction industry and can lead to irreversible lung disease if breathed in over time. Regularly breathing in this dust over a [...]

A safety culture is a commitment that the organisation places a high level of importance on safety values and attitudes throughout the business. To achieve this culture There has to be a management commitment and that commitment must be headed- up by the most Senior Directors within the organisation. It includes employee involvement, backed up by [...]

Here is an insight into two aspects of Health & Safety in a construction environment; transport and mental health. These are two very high-risk aspects of health and safety, that may not be looked at to the same degree as other aspects, that may seem more important. Workplace Transport Transport through a site is an [...]

As an employer, you must manage any health and safety risks before people can work alone. This applies to anyone contracted to work for you, including self-employed people. Click on the link below and review our risk assessment for lone workers in the construction industry. Lone workers

Falls from height is the number one cause of fatal accidents in the construction industry. The use of step ladders and ladders is part and parcel to working in the construction industry. It is going to be impossible to avoid using step ladders and ladders. Employers as a minimum should provide some form of training [...]

Cable strikes can have very serious consequences for a business and operatives carrying out the works. Operatives can sustain very serious life changing injury or fatality. Management seen not to have adequate controls in place face custodial prison sentences or massive fines. On 22nd December 2021 the HSE issued its court findings on a cable [...]

PPE must always be looked after and stored when not in use, for example in a dry, clean cupboard. If it can be reused it should be cleaned and kept in good condition. You must always use the correct replacement parts, following guidelines and the manufacturer’s instructions, keep replacement/spare PPE available. WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR [...]

A construction company based in Manchester has been fined after much of a three-bedroom domestic property in Stretford collapsed during a loft conversion and ground floor extension work. The construction company pleaded guilty and was fined £30,000 and ordered to pay costs of £3,000. Manchester Magistrates’ Court heard that the company had been carrying out [...]

Moving objects are among the 10 most hazardous activities on a construction site. These include heavy plant, diggers, mechanical lifting equipment, dumpers skip lorry’s etc. To reduce the risks of operating plant on your construction site click on our risk assessment: Moving plant on construction sites

Working with electrics and around electrics on a construction site falls within the top 10 most hazardous and risk activities.  We have all heard of operatives receiving an electric shock without sustaining serious injury or death, however electric shocks can and do kill people. An electric shock may cause a fall at height and intern [...]

Having seen this sign in a factory some thirty years ago. It really made an impression on me as a young builder. It is a brutal message that does not hold back. Thirty years on it is with sadness I read about a case in Bradford. A young apprentice decorator struck a PVC panel with [...]

Asbestos is without doubt one of the biggest hazards and creates one of the biggest risks to construction workers health. The Health and Safety Executive estimates that about 5,000 people die every year from asbestos caused cancers. Large amounts of asbestos were used in new and refurbished buildings before 2000. Blue (crocidolite) and brown (amosite) [...]

Digging footings and trenches is a very high-risk construction activity. Live services can be damaged Electricity cables can cause fatalities if struck Toxic fumes such as carbon dioxide can build up and cause fatalities A trench collapse only 1.5mts deep can crush a person causing the person to stop breathing resulting in fatality. This type [...]

The Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 are the main piece of legislation dealing with manual handling. It sets out the main duties for employers and employees. Manual handling causes over a third of all workplace injuries. These include work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as pain and injuries to arms, legs and joints, and repetitive strain injuries of various [...]

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 (the Noise Regulations) came into force for all industry sectors in Great Britain on 6 April 2006 Noise at work can cause hearing damage that is permanent and disabling. This can be hearing loss that is gradual because of exposure to noise over time, but also damage [...]

Slips and trips are the most common cause of injury at work. On average, they cause 40 per cent of all reported major injuries and can also lead to other types of serious accidents, for example falls from height. The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 requires employers, to ensure the health and [...]

Below are the top 10 risks and hazards when working on construction sites: Working at height. Slips, trips, and falls. Noise Hand arm vibration syndrome. Material and manual handling. Collapsing trenches. Asbestos. Electricity. Moving objects. Airborne fibres and materials. Each month we will include a risk assessment of how to control these risks on your [...]

This year has been very challenging with Covid 19 dominating virtually every waking minute. We at Owen have worked hard to continue trading and keep the business active, providing an ongoing service to our Clients. Many organisations have worked as hard, however have faced insurmountable obstacles forcing them to close. We take the opportunity to [...]

Owen Construction Consultancy receive a number of calls every year from builders’ and developers, after the HSE have visited their construction sites and issued a Notification of contravention letter, improvement notice, or prohibition notice. A notification of contravention is a letter that tells you about health and safety laws your organisation has broken. Your organisation [...]

Site safety plan folder for small to medium sized construction projects e.g. extensions, refurbishments, small house builds. Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 will apply to these types of projects, and as per Regulation 12 of CDM 2015, your organisation must draw up a Construction Phase Plan. Owen construction Consultancy can provide Construction Phase Plan [...]

Why should your Building Company appoint Owen Construction Consultancy to help manage your health & Safety? Construction can be hard and mentally challenging. Most of our consultants are time served construction tradespeople. We believe this to be so important, and give us the edge over our competitors. Our consultants have deep rooted trade experience, enabling [...]

Face Fit Testing Services: Ensuring Respiratory Protection Compliance Face fit testing is a method for checking that a tight fitting face mask seals adequately to the person's face. Current regulations state that Face fit testing is required for anyone who wears a tight fitting face mask for work, which includes disposable single use FFP3 face [...]

If you are a Site Manager or Company Director you are responsible for security on the sites you manage. Your Company should ensure reasonable steps are taken to prevent unauthorised access. Attention should be paid to: (a) Preventing children or vulnerable people entering the construction site. Consider schools or care homes located near the site. [...]

The HSE will be visiting sites this October focusing on the controlling of dust on construction sites. Companies in breach of their statutory duty to control dust or expose their workers to dust will face enforcement action and fines. You can find information guidance sheets when you login into the HSE web site.  Below are [...]

Getting help with health and safety Owen C C can ensure you have the necessary help. Prepare a health and safety policy Owen C C can prepare a bespoke health and safety policy for your organisation. Risk assessments Owen C C can prepare risk assessments for your organisation. Consult your workers Owen C C can [...]

Yes. If there is no planning no fit for purpose risk and method statement and unsafe working practices the quality of the build will normally mirror the on-site health and safety. How does the Project team ensure good health and safety? Appoint the right people and organisations at the right time. Ensure there is an [...]

The following are all requirements in law that a Company must carry out when working at height: (a) Provide the most suitable equipment appropriate for the work. (b) Take account of factors such as the working conditions (e.g. weather). (c) Take into account the nature, frequency and duration of the work. (d) The risks to [...]

Rain (a) Provide waterproof PPE clothing in wet conditions and lined waterproof Personal Protective Equipment in cold wet conditions. Cold Icy conditions (a) Identify the outdoor areas used by pedestrians most likely to be affected by icy conditions. (b) Monitor the temperature is key to prevention of accidents. (c) Erect safety signs (d) Use grit [...]

The following are all requirements in law that a Company must carry out to avoid hazardous manual handling, so far as is reasonably practicable: (a) Assess the risk of injury from any hazardous manual handling operations that cannot be avoided (b) reduce the risk of injury from hazardous manual handling to as low as reasonably [...]

If you manage a construction company and are thinking of employing a young person, consider the following hazards and controls you will need to carry out to ensure the safety of any young person you intend to employ.  A young person is anyone under 18. consider the following hazards and controls you will need to [...]