Building sector needs targeted inspections, safety boots users told

Regulation should not be seen as the only solution to health and safety problems in the construction sector, it has been claimed.

Inspections led by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) should be focused on the sites that need them most, according to Brian Berry, who acts as director of external affairs at the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Commenting after Conservative Party proposals to amend the safety inspection process, Mr Berry said: 'While we would not favour banning HSE inspectors from any site, we would suggest that the ones which are independently and reputably audited are not necessarily the ones that the handful of HSE construction inspectors should be looking at.'

He added that the construction sector should continue to focus on 'rationalising prequalification' when it comes to health and safety, which may interest firms looking to increase their use of personal protective equipment like safety boots to improve employee health.

Last month, the FMB suggested that the government may need to offer householders financial incentives if they are to be encouraged to make their homes energy efficient.

© Adfero Ltd