Fall arrest equipment can help protect against accidents

Roofers who carry out work without safety measures in place are "risking lives", the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has said.

HSE figures show that last year, 38 workers were killed in Great Britain and 4,000 suffered major injuries as a result of a fall.

The HSE says that roofers should not work unless safety measures such as guard rails are in place to prevent accidents.

The warning comes after three roofers were caught working above a busy high street with no safety measures in place or protective clothing.

Jacqueline Western, HSE inspector, said: "Dozens of people die every year as a result of a fall while at work. Roofers should treat the risks seriously and take action to make sure workers stay safe."

As well as guard rails, fall arrest equipment, which ranges from harnesses to rescue kits, is one such safety measure that can significantly reduce the chance of fatal accidents taking place. 

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