The majority of businesses on Industrial estates throughout Derwentside and Newton Aycliffe are doing what they should to protect their workers, according to the results of an inspection initiative.

Almost 150 businesses were visited by inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and Durham County Council during an intensive week of inspections in February when advice and guidance was offered on how to improve health and safety standards.

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Enforcement action was required on 23 occasions for such issues as a lack of effective segregation between pedestrians and vehicles, untrained fork lift truck operators and unguarded machinery. Advice was also given to all businesses on their duty to manage any asbestos in their premises.

HSE Inspector Cain Mitchell said: "Preventing accidents and ill-health is much better than having to deal with the consequences and we were able to offer constructive, practical advice to many of the companies we visited.

"We're very pleased to see that the health and safety message is getting through in Derwentside and Newton Aycliffe and a good number of businesses are taking the necessary steps to ensure a safe and healthy environment for their employees."

(CD/KMcA)