Posted By Robert K Lewis Personally after two or three discussions such as this I would talk to the relevant director about the new corporate manslaughter bill and how this person is a senior manager managing a substantial part of the business. It is very difficult to argue with these guys when they are absolutely fixed. Sometimes there are personality problems. From a personal perspective I use such confrontations also to question my own approaches and determine if there is a lack of confidence in my judgement - can be useful sometimes. There are also times when you need to jump out of the pram and clear the air - you must make the call. I've met many like them over the years but at heart they have no wish to cause harm to anybody it's simply the risk does not seem that real. Bob

Posted By Raymond Rapp David It is a difficult scenario you describe and as such there are no simple answers. Many managers treat health and safety as another 'obstacle' in reaching their goal. You can of course get out the 'big stick' and see if that works, but invariably those entrenched in anti safe practices will not respond favourably. Indeed, after a serious incident at work one such manager said to me 'well, no one got hurt'. In the long term, professional associations like APM, RICS etc need to ensure that those belonging to their organisations are properly informed in good safety practices. Those that act recklessly should have sanctions taken against them. However, many management type courses such MBAs do not have any health and safety modules included, such is the low profile of the subject. Apparently health and safety is not regarded as being 'sexy'. Oh, so accounting, statistics and marketing are! On a more positive note. The Project Managers in my organisation have agreed to enrol for the NEBOSH Construction Certificate with yours truly. It will not necessarilly turn them into patron saints of health and safety, but it is a good start. Regards Ray

Posted By Adrian Clifton If you currently have a site with such problems, ring the HSE and suggest a visit may be beneficial. Improvement Notices and the threat of a possible personal prosecution normally works wonders. Whistleblowing is a very sad route to be forced down for any H&S Professional but sometimes it is the only remaining option. The August issue of SHP has two very relevant incidents included. Page 12 "Three parties prosecuted over fatal fall" and page 14 "Roof fall leaves worker in wheelchair". Either of these could be one of your sites. How will you feel in the event of a serious incident or fatality, knowing what you know? As long as there are Project Managers willing to cut corners, there will be workers crippled or killed by following unsafe practices and procedures. I have only been in your position once. I contacted the HSE who phoned my employer. That is all that was needed and the problem was resolved. Adrian

Posted By Paul Mahoney David, Take him aside and show him the HSE's film Turning Concern into Action, if that doesn't change him, then nothing will. I first saw the film at a ROSPA/Ryder Marsh BBS conference a few weeks ago. You should be able to get a copy directly from the HSE.