The construction sector in Newcastle has been warned by the HSE that spot checks on refurbishment projects will be out to ensure workers’ lives are not being put at risk and the sites are in good order.

Last year, 77 workers in the UK were killed on construction sites, and 60% of the fatalities occurred in the refurbishment sector.

During a similar initiative carried out last summer, a total of 78 contractors in the North East received a visit from inspectors and enforcement notices were issued on 13 occasions for poor practice relating to working at height, failing to have sites tidy and free from tripping hazards and other safety issues.

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HM Inspector of Health and Safety, Michael Brown, said: "We'll be carrying out spot checks across refurbishment sites in Newcastle to ensure that workers' lives are not being put at risk. Our inspectors continue to be appalled at the willingness to ignore basic safety precautions. We will not tolerate poor standards and will take appropriate enforcement action.

Mr Brown continued: "Site safety should be paramount and the simple answer is that too many sites allow bad practices to continue. We have a message for all construction sites - we are watching you. Sites in Newcastle where health and safety is taken seriously have nothing to fear, but we will not let up in or campaign to root out those that put lives at risk."

(JM)