AN INSPECTION of dozens of construction sites in the NorthEast saw work immediately stopped on several and 14 prohibition notices served.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) checked 69 sites during three weeks in September to see if safety measures were being taken when working at height.

The campaign was in response to the continued loss of life and serious injury arising from falls. In the 12 months to April, 49 workers lost their lives on construction sites in the UK. Falls from height were the most common cause of fatal injuries.

Robert Hirst, HSE principal inspector, said: “Straightforward practical precautions are well known in the industry.

Safe access equipment is readily available for purchase or hire and there is no excuse for workers, and the self-employed, to put themselves in a position of danger when working at height.

“HSE will continue to maintain a strong enforcement profile where there is blatant disregard to safe working practice.”