Construction sites across Scotland will come under closer scrutiny from the Health and Safety Executive in a bid to cut the number of deaths from working at height.

49 people died in the 12 months to April this year, with falls being the most common cause of fatal injury.

Inspections will focus on the external parts of buildings, although the initiative will also cover other aspects of working at height, including the use of health and safety signage and ensuring that equipment is up to scratch.

-- Advertisement --

Archie Mitchell, a principal inspector for construction in Scotland, said: "Falling from height is the cause of the greatest number of fatalities. All too often straightforward practical precautions are not considered and workers are put unnecessarily at risk. In many cases, simple changes to working practices can make all the difference."

He added that poor management of risk in the industry is "unacceptable", warning that strong action will be taken if workers are being put in danger.

(H)