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#1 Posted : 29 April 2008 12:18:00(UTC)
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Posted By dave burrage
Hi All
I wonder if anybody has an insight into if and how a site inspector should assess the risks to themselves when visiting multiple construction sites in a single day. They are of course inspecting the degree of site compliance to legislation and HSE plans etc but what about the risks to themselves THAT day? My view is that they should carry out a relatively simple dynamic RA on arrival at each site identifying key observable activities and hazards. I would welcome views of others.
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#2 Posted : 29 April 2008 15:13:00(UTC)
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Posted By Brett Day

When I do site inspections I always sign in with security (assuming that there is someone at the gate) check for any signs - some sites have a safety board with info on the day's hazardous activities or all 'major activities'

I make sure that as much as possible I don't go wandering around site, after signing in I normally go to the site office and meet the foreman or site manager, am either escorted or I have a chat and find out about any special requirements, rules or hazards ongoing.

On the occasions I have been to sites where work is being undertaken and the site managment cannot be found I think twice, move once. If there is any doubt I back away sometimes I've called off an inspection.

The strangest I came across was one site where I asked where the site manager was and was told don't know, asked where the foreman was and told don't know, asked who was in charge and told haven't a clue, I s'pose it's me for the brickies, for anyone else you'll have to ask mate.

Turns out the site manager and foreman were at head office for the monthly H&S meeting.

Oops !
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#3 Posted : 29 April 2008 15:58:00(UTC)
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Posted By Alan Haynes
Surely the Induction briefing would give clues to hazards on site?

No induction - no site visit [surely]
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#4 Posted : 29 April 2008 16:11:00(UTC)
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Posted By Brett Day

Alan

would broadly agree, however, some sites that I visit do not require a site induction according to the PC's rules as long as the visitor is escorted at all times by at least someone of at least site supervisor / foreman level.
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#5 Posted : 29 April 2008 21:51:00(UTC)
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Posted By SMurray
Hi Dave,
I too visit multiple sites on a daily basis. I personally will not go on to a working site without making my presence known at the security lodge, and or in the site office.
If possible I attend site inductons on all of the sites which will require regular visits, and I do find that the information posted on some message boards is useful (where they are regularly updated).
Where the site is unoccupied, a simple risk assessment is easy enough to carry out from the comfort of your car. But do not be complacent, if you have any real worries or doubts do not enter.
Another important consideration that has not been mentioned before is the risk that you may be a 'lone worker'? If this is the case, and you have any concerns, report your presence by telephone to a colleague, your office or your home, and let them know when you are leaving the site safe and well.
Regards, Steve.
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#6 Posted : 30 April 2008 05:48:00(UTC)
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Posted By dave burrage
Thanks all, much appreciated. Where i was also coming from was a situation where an 'inspector' arrives on site and during the visit has an accident. How would we demonstrate the absolute duty to carry out suitable and sufficient risk assessment (as the employer of the inspector) or can we rely on the RA of the site operator delivered (hopefully) through the induction?
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