Britain’s HSE Warns that Construction Sites Aren’t Child’s Play

Aug. 10, 2010
The U.K. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sent a message to parents that building sites are not playgrounds. As school holidays are well underway in Britain, HSE encourages parents to warn their children of the dangers of playing on construction sites.

“Without proper precautions, construction sites are dangerous places for those who work on them day in day out, never mind the risks to children who simply see them as exciting playgrounds and don’t understand the dangers,” said Philip White, HSE’s chief inspector of construction. “Of course we want children to make the most of their summer holidays by enjoying the outdoors, but building sites are not the place to do it. We need parents to help this message hit home.”

One child died and 25 others were injured on construction sites in 2008/09, according to HSE. Dozens more children are seriously injured on sites every year.

Secure Sites

HSE also reminded companies that sites should be secure with good fencing to prevent public access. These sites should be checked regularly to ensure they are secure.

“Construction managers should check their sites are secure, and in areas where children live and play, they should ensure that risks to children are properly controlled,” White stressed.

The Health and Safety Executive is Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. It aims to prevent death, injury and ill health. It does so through research, information and advice, promoting training, new or revised regulations and codes of practice and working with local authority partners by inspection, investigation and enforcement.

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.

Sponsored Recommendations

Ensuring a Safer Workplace through a Comprehensive Contractor Qualification Framework

March 13, 2025
Avetta is a leader in contractor management, and with over 15 years of industry experience, we can help you establish a robust contractor pre-qualification program that aligns...

EQT Private Equity to Acquire Avetta from WCAS

March 13, 2025
EQT commits to supporting Avetta in its ongoing growth and innovation journey.

Guide to OSHA Workplace Lighting Requirements

March 13, 2025
Learn OSHA workplace lighting requirements to enhance safety, productivity, and quality. Discover standards, compliance benefits, and risks of non-compliance.

What is the difference between Tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers and why do they matter?

March 13, 2025
From raw materials to final products, each supplier tier poses risks and liabilities that can impact your organization. Avetta's supply chain management software offers peace ...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!