A series of health and safety inspections are set to take place at construction sites across Northern Ireland later this year.

The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) will begin a fortnight long programme of inspections from Monday 16 September 2019.

This year's HSENI construction initiative is focusing on 'Health as well as safety', as poor standards and unsafe practices on local building sites are targeted during a nationwide drive aimed at reducing ill health, death and injury in the industry.

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During inspections, HSENI Inspectors will consider whether:

• Site management is competent and fit for purpose;

• Working at height is been properly planned and that appropriate internal & external fall prevention measures are in place;

• Sites are well organised to avoid slips, trips and falls;

• Walkways and stairs are free from obstructions;

• Welfare facilities are adequate;

• Vehicles and pedestrians are segregated and site traffic safely managed; and

• Health risks from exposure to hand-arm vibration are being properly managed.

HSENI Principal Inspector Nancy Henry said: "During these site inspections, we are looking to ensure that those in control are managing risks to people's safety and health and in particular taking measures to eliminate those risks known to be the biggest cause of serious and fatal accidents. HSENI will provide advice during the targeted visits, and where appropriate will take enforcement action."