Steel construction accidents down by 60%

A dramatic reduction in reported accidents has been achieved by BCSA members over the last ten years, which is borne out by the latest published figures.

Accident rates for BCSA members compared with the targets set by the HSE and the construction industry

RIDDOR falls from height, 2005-2009

The Reportable Accident Frequency Rate for members has been reduced by 60% in the last ten years.

One of the key targets set by the Government and the Health & Safety Executive in 2000  was to reduce reportable accidents by 10% over a ten year period. The construction industry set a far more demanding target of 66% for the same period.

“BCSA members have achieved a 60% reduction in this period which is a very good result that demonstrates the industry is committed to improving working practices and procedures,” said Pete Walker, BCSA Health, Safety & Training Manager.

“There has been a continuing reduction of injuries relating to falls from height, particularly in the last five years, and in 2009 no such injuries were recorded, which is a significant achievement for the constructional steelwork industry.”

Prior to 2008 the injury category associated with falls from a height of below 2m did increase, however this trend has been reversed in the last two years.

Injuries from handling, lifting and moving had remained constantly high over a four year period. “However, in this category another significant improvement of 40% has been achieved,” said Mr Walker.