Health & Safety Authority statistics
on fatalities in the construction sector for 2007 revealed an increase of six
deaths compared to 2006, eighteen in total, compared to twelve in 2006.
Non fatal injuries have remained relatively constant, a small decrease from the previous year. Using fatality figures as a barometer on the quality of safety management systems and procedures in Ireland should never be regarded as an accurate guide. Serious accidents usually result from a number of factors (including but not limited to human error). Another issue is the sheer range of work related activities that come under the construction sector and which are included in construction safety statistics. These extend from multi million construction developments to the erection of small lean-to on a farm, together with varying safety management standards.
An interesting issue will be the impact or otherwise of the recent volume of safety legislation. This legislation has concentrated on the roles of client and designer and their involvement in new construction projects. However, it has also included highly significant provisions in regard to the individual role of senior managers and directors. This focus on individual responsibilities is a relatively new trend (but could be mirrored in recent corporate killing legislation in the UK). The influence of these new responsibilities and the likely trickle down impact on health and safety performance and, ultimately accident statistics should be watched closely, particularly over the medium to long term.
