Construction workers across the Borders are being urged to pick up lifesaving advice at a forthcoming event on Wednesday 29 September.

The free event which takes place at Borders Union Showground aims to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities that occur in Scotland each year in the construction industry, as well as the number of people suffering from work-related ill health.

The event will offer practical information to employers and those who are self employed on how to deal with some of the most common hazards on small construction sites.

Figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) show that over the last five years, 49 construction workers have been killed and nearly 7000 have been seriously injured in Scotland.

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The half-day event is aimed particularly at small to medium sized companies as figures show that three quarters of all workers killed or injured on building sites worked for companies employing fewer than 15 people.

Around 150 people are expected to attend on the day, which will feature presentations from industry experts on a variety of hazards including asbestos awareness, working at height, safe trench work and fire safety.

The special training event has been organised as part of the Working Well Together initiative - a partnership between HSE and the construction industry - which aims to improve health and safety in the sector.

As well as practical demonstrations and presentations, visitors can pick up one to one advice from HSE staff and representatives from the Working Well Together (WWT) Campaign throughout the day.

HSE Principal Inspector Iain Brodie said: "Accidents on construction sites are often serious and can be fatal − it remains one of the most dangerous industries. It is vital that managers and company owners understand how to reduce risks on their sites.

"This free event will provide essential information and advice that could help save lives, so I urge local construction businesses to attend."

(CD/KMcA)