The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) have developed a short online course on construction safety.

'An Introduction to Construction Safety for Small Contractors and the Self-Employed' is a short 30-minute online course that aims to provide relevant health and safety information to small construction contractors.

The free course also intends to raise awareness of the importance of occupational safety, health and welfare in construction.

When complete, course learners are expected to:

• identify key duties under health and safety legislation;

• recognise key hazards and risks in construction;

• understand the consequences of unsafe work practices, and

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• source relevant information on construction health and safety, including the Safety Statement.

Michael McDonagh, Head of Construction Policy with the Health and Safety Authority, said: "Recent research by the HSA shows that smaller contractors are more than 3 times more likely to have fatal accidents than larger organisations. This course offers learners an insight into the requirements of the Construction Regulations and practical safety and health on site. It highlights some of the key hazards in the sector and will be a useful resource, particularly for small contractors and sole traders." 

HSA Education Manager, Joanne Harmon added: "Learners can take courses during their own time, at their own pace and can download a certificate of completion on passing the short assessment. Although not a formal qualification, certification can form part of an individual's training or continuous professional development record.

"This course can also be delivered to a group of learners using the group manager facility. This means that employers, managers or tutors can register groups of learners to take the course in their own time and remotely monitor their progress."

The course can be accessed via the HSA's e-learning portal here: hsalearning.ie.