Last year alone (2007/08) 38 people died during property development, mostly due to falls from height and electrocution.
HSE launched a new guide for property developers because research shows that many small-scale developers do not know about their legal responsibilities under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 (CDM 2007). The regulations aren't there to create paperwork; they are about helping developers choose a competent team that will work efficiently and safely.
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John MacRae, Chairman of the Board of Directors, ASPC said: "I would urge those with plans to develop property as an investment, as opposed to creating your own home, to take a few minutes to familiarise themselves with the health and safety requirements.
"While health and safety may seem like an unwelcome burden, it is important to ensure you offer a safe work environment for those who come into your development."
HSE statistics show a startling snapshot of the repair, refurbishment and maintenance sector: between 1999 & 2007, 340 people died while working in the sector.
Last year (2007/08) alone, it was responsible for more than half (52%) of construction fatalities, some 38 deaths, with falls from height and electrocution accounting for most of these.
(GK/JM)
