Construction workers across Argyll and the Western Isles are being urged to pick up lifesaving advice at a free event on Tuesday, 14 February at Oban High School.

Health and Safety Executive inspectors, alongside leading members of the construction industry, will give practical advice on how to prevent death and injury while carrying out key activities on site.

The construction industry is still one of the most dangerous sectors to work in, with 960 injuries to workers in Scotland 2010/11 – including one fatality.

The half-day event, part of the UK-wide "Working Well Together" campaign, is aimed at small to medium sized companies, contracting companies and self employed construction workers. The workshop will cover high risk construction activities including: working at height, use of access equipment, stone cutting and dust issues, transport, mechanical handling and welfare and tidy site practice, as well as information on the risks from asbestos and the steps that can be taken to prevent exposure.


HSE Principal Inspector Iain Brodie said: "It is through events like this that HSE is working with the industry to help rid construction of its reputation as one of Scotland’s most dangerous industries.

"This free event will give practical advice from those in the industry and include the most up to date thinking on how to work safely in this sector. It will provide essential information and advice that could save lives, so if you have a small building, construction or contracting company or if you are self-employed I urge you to attend."

Places are still available to attend this event, although bookings are made on a first come first served basis. For more information and to reserve a place please contact Allan Mulholland at *or call 0141 275 3062.

(GK)