"Making workplaces safe, even in the construction industry, is not rocket science," says Michael Slade, managing director of health & safety specialist Bibby Consulting & Support.

Making workplaces safe, even in the construction industry, is not rocket science,

"Construction companies have a duty to ensure that their sites are operated in a safe way,” said HSE inspector Phil Nicolle. "Construction is the country's biggest industry, but it is also one of the most dangerous. Over the last five years, on average, 61 people have died every year from injuries they receive as a result of construction work, and many more have been injured."

Michael Slade, managing director of health & safety specialist Bibby Consulting & Support, who described the figures as nothing short of staggering, said: "In simple terms, all you have to do is follow the guidance available and plan things properly, so it's extremely disappointing to see that the number of fatalities in this sector has remained static at around 50 for the second year running. So many of these deaths are wholly avoidable."

"Regulations relating to this kind of work are prescriptive, which means they tell you what you've got to do. That's why it's so unacceptable that a simple lack of planning can put people's lives at risk, as well as the future of many businesses."

He pointed out that construction companies are in for an even bigger shock from 1 October this year, when they are likely to be charged by the HSE for being sent a notice of prohibition or improvement. The 'Fee for Intervention' cost recovery scheme will see companies paying for the expense of the HSE investigating them and taking enforcement action.