The branch tries annually to invite the local inspector to meet the Branch. As well as giving a forum for the HSE to highlight any particular issues, it provides an opportunity for informal discussion.

Cath outlined progress on Hard Targets, which are now 3 years old. Progress had been good with accidents reducing (down 29%) but still room for improvement. 62 prohibition notices served in last year. Accidents and fatalities were still occurring. Main areas - Falls from height, Vehicle related - e.g. Lorry sheeting, Hit by objects, Slips Trips and falls and Lifting - manual handling training.

She highlighted that the Hard Targets initiative considered 5 areas for action -

Mobile plant safety

Behavioural safety

Guarding

Contractors Safety Passport

Occupational Health

This links with the inspection by HSC staff who now have RISK CONTROL INDICATORS. During site visits they will monitor the specific areas and score their assessment of the current position of the site. Full compliance (1) to limited or nil compliance (4). HSE viewed it important that all levels of management are actively involved in safety of the business. Noted that in Tarmac all directors required to spend 8 hours per month on safety.

The inspector dealt with a list of specific areas being targeted at present.

COMPETENCE
A requirement of the Regulations, needed by all staff from Director down!! Based on combination of - formal qualification, experience and national standards (NVQ) and other qualities to enable him/her to fulfil duties. The need for CPD to keep knowledge was raised - HSE expect in post managers to have 36 hours per year.

GEOTECHNICAL ASSESSMENTS
Appraisal of all quarries and tips should have been completed by 1st January 2001. Followed by assessment by Geotechnical expert if significant hazard exists. HSE consider this process should all be complete and will take action on sites without appraisal / design in place. Need to be acted upon not just filed and involve workforce in relevant issues.

CRANE LIFT PLANNING
A number of crane incidents have occurred recently. Regulations now require suitably qualified Appointed Person. Courses available check they are approved.

WORKING UNDER OR NEAR HV CABLES
HSE recently attended 2 incidents where the driver walked away from accident - the next person may not be so lucky. Note HSE guidelines available.

PLANT MAINTENANCE
Reg 12 requires planning of maintenance. Need for safe & proper access and egress. Problems recognised with some mobile plant not having walkways etc.

WORKFORCE PARTICIPATION
During visits HSE will monitor staff to ascertain level of involvement in training and risk assessment in their workplace.

A lively question and answer session followed.