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Autumn 2024 Newsletter

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As the seasons change, we’re excited to share the latest company updates, industry insights, and everything happening at Team Rhino. From new projects to industry updates, here’s what’s in store this autumn!

Principal Contractor pays £30k after delivery driver’s fatal electrocution

Case Summary: A principal contractor, BBM Contracts Limited, was prosecuted following a fatal accident on a construction site at Bartletts Farm near Reading, Berkshire. On 16 November 2020, a self-employed grab lorry driver was electrocuted when the crane arm of his vehicle came into contact with overhead power lines while delivering crushed concrete.
The driver had reversed his lorry onto the site and raised the crane arm under the power lines, leading to electricity arcing onto the crane arm, passing through the vehicle, and fatally electrocuting him. The site’s distribution network operator, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, quickly isolated the affected line, but it was too late to prevent the driver’s death.
Key Issues Identified:
  • BBM Contracts Limited was aware of the overhead power lines but failed to implement adequate safety measures.
  • No warnings (verbal, visual, or physical) were provided on-site regarding the overhead electrical hazard.
  • The company’s risk assessment and method statement did not address the presence of the overhead power lines or explore alternative delivery routes to avoid the hazard.
HSE Investigation Findings:
  • The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) concluded that BBM Contracts Limited had failed to meet safety standards, as they should have either avoided the area or ensured controls were in place to mitigate the risk.
  • The company should have assessed whether work near overhead power lines was necessary and ensured risks were properly controlled if unavoidable.
  • Following the incident, BBM introduced an alternative delivery route to mitigate future risks.
Key Takeaways for Clients:
  1. Risk Identification and Mitigation: Always assess hazards like overhead power lines in construction planning and factor them into risk assessments and method statements.
  2. Implement Safety Measures: Use clear demarcations, signage, and warnings to highlight potential dangers, especially where vehicle height can increase.
  3. Avoid Risk Areas: If possible, avoid conducting work in areas with overhead power lines. If unavoidable, ensure risks are controlled with appropriate measures.
  4. Follow Industry Standards: Ensure that safety measures align with recognised standards and HSE guidance to prevent similar incidents.
This case highlights the critical importance of thorough risk management and adherence to safety protocols when working near electrical hazards.For any questions or to schedule a consultation, please contact #TeamRhino at support@rhinosafety.co.uk

Team Update

This summer, we’ve welcomed three new members to Team Rhino!
Jayne brings over 20 years of experience in Health & Safety, with expertise in behavioural safety, accident investigations, and risk management. Outside work, she volunteers as a canine behavioural assessor for Pets and Therapy.
Sian joined us in July 2024, transitioning from facilities management to Health & Safety, inspired by her dad’s long career as a food inspector. She enjoys spending her free time with her young son.
Jordan started in September, coming from an operations role where he developed his passion for Health & Safety. He recently earned his NEBOSH certification and enjoys time with his daughter.
We’re excited to have them on board!
JayneSianjordanMcDeanpic

 

 

 

 

 

 

Training

We have scheduled our Emergency First Aid at Work training courses all the way through to Dec 2024. If these dates don’t suit you or your team, or if you are interested in our other courses, please get in touch! We can offer bespoke training at your workplace at a convenient time. In 2024, we are expanding our in-person and online training programs, which now covers over 123 courses. Our courses are designed to be comprehensive and flexible to meet your specific needs. To find out more, call us on: 01270 440 341, email: training@rhinosafety.co.uk or visit: www.rhinosafety.co.uk/training

 

Builder Sentenced after Endangering Workers on London Construction Site

Key Facts:
  • David Beadle, trading as Beadle the Builders, received a 26-week suspended prison sentence for putting workers’ lives at risk on a construction site in South East London.
  • Beadle ignored a prohibition notice issued by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which had flagged unsafe working conditions at height.
  • Unsafe scaffolding: On at least three occasions, Beadle allowed workers to use a scaffold that was improperly constructed and at risk of collapse, despite the notice.
  • Lack of safety measures: There was no edge protection on various parts of the roof, and safe access was not provided, increasing the risk of falls, the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry.
  • Beadle pleaded guilty to breaches of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
  • He was also ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and pay £6,043 in costs.
Takeaways:
  • This case highlights the serious consequences of failing to follow health and safety regulations, especially when it comes to working at height.
  • The HSE continues to take strong enforcement action against those who put workers at risk, with falls from height remaining the leading cause of death in construction.
  • Employers must ensure all scaffolding and access measures meet safety standards to prevent accidents and legal repercussions.
For more updates on safety regulations and industry news, stay tuned to our newsletter.

Food Festival

For the second year running, we hosted our Rhino Marquee at the local food festival, inviting friends and family to join us for drinks and fun. The festival, which draws over 40,000 attendees, showcases a fantastic variety of stalls and demonstrations. We’ve proudly supported this event since Rhino’s beginnings in 2015, and it’s been exciting to see it grow each year, thanks in large part to the dedication of the amazing volunteers who make it happen.

Rhino Dashboard

The new Rhino dashboard is currently being trailed by clients that have registered an interest in our online dashboard.
Our dashboard offers clients a user-friendly interface for managing health and safety documentation, accident reporting and compliance overview for all company locations. Designed to save time, reduce risk, and enhances efficiency in health and safety management.
Register your interest with our team or stay tuned for more details!

For further details on anything included in the newsletter please call: 01270 440 341 or email info@rhinosafety.co.uk

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