The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is carrying out a two-week quarry safety inspection campaign commencing on Monday 23rd September. The focus of the campaign is on safe machinery operation, machinery guarding and maintenance activities.
HSA inspectors will be conducting quarry safety inspections focusing on the key hazards that exist when operating quarry machinery or while carrying out machinery maintenance in quarries and associated manufacturing premises. Inspectors will also focus on ensuring that safe work practices and proactive measures are in place to reduce the risk of incidents, including serious or fatal injury.
Hilary Byrne, Senior Inspector, HSA stated at the launch of the campaign that, “We require employers in the quarry industry to proactively carry out risk assessments and put in place appropriate control measures including safe ways of working. As with any hazardous workplace environment, preventative measures are key to ensuring the safety of workers. Clear communication is also crucial to ensuring all workers are aware of safety measures ensuring they all receive instruction and safety training relevant to the tasks that are undertaken.”
Hilary continued, “The Health and Safety Authority remains committed to improving the safety, health and welfare of all persons involved in the quarrying industry and these inspections are a key part of that effort and we welcome the support from the Irish Concrete Federation (ICF) for the safety campaign.”
Supporting the HSA’s quarry safety blitz, Irish Concrete Federation’s Chief Executive, Gerry Farrell, said, “This important HSA inspection campaign is an opportunity for companies to review their safety procedures, together with their employees, and implement new initiatives to enhance the safety and well-being of all in the workplace. It is critical that Irish Concrete Federation members remain focused on the fundamental safety risks associated with quarrying on a daily basis. Therefore, we greatly welcome the active support of the HSA for this campaign with its focus on safe machinery operation, machinery guarding and maintenance activities in quarries”
During the inspections, HSA Inspectors will be providing information, advice and making employers aware of resources available to help them reduce the risk of incidents involving machinery, particularly during machinery maintenance.
For further information and resources on quarry safety visit HSA website at the following links:
Safe Quarry – A Guide for Quarry Workers
For press queries please contact Aoife Moroney Ward on 086 8036141 or email [email protected]
