HSE Strengthens Construction Incident Reporting with New Regulations
Recent changes to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) will significantly impact construction contractors. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is tightening rules for dangerous occurrences, particularly in construction activities. These adjustments aim to enhance safety standards across the industry.
Expanded Reporting Requirements
The new RIDDOR regulations will broaden the scope of what needs to be reported. Among the key updates are:
- Tunneling projects now require reporting for incidents involving tunnels with a diameter greater than 1.2 meters.
- The rules for reporting falling objects have been expanded. Any accidental drops from structures under construction or demolition that pose a risk of death will now be reportable.
- Mandatory reporting of dangerous occurrences will include incidents with excavators, mobile plant, drill rigs, and piling rigs.
Focus on Structural Integrity
Structural failures will also be closely monitored. Reporting requirements will now include:
- Collapses of roofs and ceilings.
- Failures in temporary works and trenches.
This intensifies expectations regarding the management of temporary works and ground risks on construction sites.
Occupational Health Changes
In addition to incident reporting, there are proposed changes to the list of reportable occupational diseases. The HSE aims to reinstate nine conditions, including:
- Asbestosis
- Silicosis
- Decompression illness related to tunneling
- Significant hearing loss
Simplifying the Reporting Process
The HSE is also addressing the reporting process itself. Plans are in place to simplify the online reporting system. This step is intended to reduce both under-reporting and over-reporting, which are common issues on busy construction sites.
Stakeholder Consultation
According to Rachael Radway, deputy director of regulation at HSE, “RIDDOR reporting is central to how we identify emerging risk, target regulatory activity, and contribute to the evidence base for workplace health and safety.”
The HSE is currently consulting those affected by the changes to improve safety standards while minimizing the administrative burden on businesses. This consultation is open until June 30.
