Health and safety is our highest priority. Construction remains a hazardous industry, accounting for almost 30% of all fatal injuries to people in the workplace. Performance has improved over the past two decades, however, the levels of incidents and ill health remain high and improving delivery speed must not come at the expense of health and safety. In achieving this, we are focusing on:
• complying with legal requirements by embedding the principles of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) in all projects and programmes
• reducing the cases of occupational lung disease, musculoskeletal disorders and work-related mental ill health including stress
• supporting small businesses to achieve improved risk management and control
All contracting authorities should embed these priorities in their project and programme planning as part of a comprehensive approach to managing and improving occupational health and safety. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) can provide further information.