HSENI announces workplace transport inspection campaign
Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland to target concrete premises from mid-April
THE Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) is to carry out a workplace transport inspection campaign across concrete premises in Northern Ireland from 17 April 2023.
HSENI inspectors will be conducting focused inspections to assess the management of workplace transport risks, targeting three key areas required to manage workplace transport effectively. Amongst other issues, these will include the following:
Safe Site
Is there a traffic-management plan in place for the site?
Are pedestrians and vehicles adequately segregated?
Are there dedicated routes for pedestrians to travel around the site which offer physical protection from moving vehicles?
Are there adequate arrangements in place to control the risks to small-load customers and members of the public on site?
Safe Vehicle
Are measures in place to ensure vehicle all-round visibility?
Are procedures in place to carry out pre-use checks and report defects?
Have statutory examinations been completed for vehicles used for lifting?
Safe Driver
Do drivers hold adequate licenses/training certificates for the vehicles they are authorized to drive?
Is there a programme of driver refresher training in place?
Are there measures in place to prevent drivers falling from height during sheeting/loading activities?
Commenting on the upcoming campaign, HSENI Principal Inspector Brian Pryce said: ‘Unfortunately, workplace transport continues to be an area responsible for fatalities and major injuries in the workplace. Beginning in April, our inspectors will be visiting concrete premises throughout Northern Ireland to ensure effective controls are in place to manage the risks associated with workplace transport.’
The HSENI says its inspectors will be providing information and advice during the campaign but, where significant risks are found, may take enforcement action in order to achieve compliance with health and safety legislation to ensure that the risks are properly managed.
