A new television advertisement aimed at tackling the increasing fatality rate in the construction sector has been launched.

The ad by the Health and Safety Authority, 'Building is hard. Rebuilding is harder', is a graphic depiction of the typical tools used on construction sites placed alongside those used by medical professionals in operating theatres. The new TV ad will run across a range of channels including RTE, TV3, TG4, Sky and Channel 4.

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Michael McDonagh, Head of Construction Policy with the Health and Safety Authority, said: "In the five year period from 2010 to the end of 2014, 39 people lost their lives in construction-related activity. This was in the context of a major recession which saw a huge decline in construction activity. I am very concerned at the projected number of deaths over the coming years if current trends continue."

"The construction industry is primed for growth and we are seeing many new projects at planning stage. In this context it is vital that we are proactive in raising awareness of the high levels of risk on construction sites and influencing attitudes and behaviours amongst construction workers."

(CD/LM)