Final figures on Health & Safety Executive’s (HSE) crackdown on the refurbishment sector

Following our earlier report, HSE construction inspectors have now finished their month-long inspection that targeted the refurbishment sector. They found that half the sites they inspected did not comply with basic safety standards. 

Final figures show that the HSE served enforcement notices at 644 sites because they were unsafe and handed out 539 prohibition notices that meant business activity had to stop immediately. 414 improvement notices were also issued that required a rise in health and safety standards. 

These recent figures have increased from those released in March 2013, when the same initiative was held. Then, the HSE visited 2,363 sites and handed out 433 enforcement notices. 

The most common problems the inspectors came across included harmful dust exposure, inadequate welfare facilities and a lack of precaution when it came to safely working at height.

HSE’s chief inspector of construction, Heather Bryant, has warned that, “those who recklessly endanger the health and lives of their workforce can expect to face tough consequences.”

These consequences could include hefty fines, prosecutions or even business closures so it is important to make sure you are following and implementing proper health and safety rules and avoid the potential devastating consequences.  

Our Health & Safety Xpert software helps builders and construction workers to stay vigilant when it comes to health and safety and makes sure that you are always up-to-date with the latest legislation. 

Builders to save thousands with fastest version of PlansXpress

The fastest version of HBXL’s hugely successful PlansXpress software has just been launched.

Understand your business finances better – with Construction Industry Accounts (CIA Lite)

Ever despair that your profits never actually turn out to be as good as they looked on your estimates? Would you like to keep more of a handle on your finances? 

CIA Lite differs from other accounting software packages because it has been developed specifically for the UK building industry and its specific requirements, for example Job Costing, the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS), certifications, retentions and VAT. It makes sitting down and doing your accounts so much easier.

To request a demo or simply to talk over the software call the team on 0845 1234 065.

Late payments creates £30 million blackhole for SMEs

- software update plugs cash flow issue for builders -

As the economy recovers and with encouraging news on the build sector hitting the headlines almost daily, builders wanting to maximise their profits but also maintain a healthy cashflow are being advised to make the most of the latest software designed to make sure they are never out of pocket.

Building confidence in 2014 with the help of HBXL

It's happening! There's confidence out there and it's building!

The Office for National Statistics has reported that the British economy grew at the strongest rate in six years in 2013, ending the year on a strong note as the recovery became more entrenched, with a 0.7% growth in the fourth quarter. It took the annual growth rate to 1.9%, the strongest since 2007 before the financial crisis took hold.

According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) the recovery is well underway now and the future appears to be turning increasingly bright. 

Builders warned small sites and refurb work remain top priority for HSE

Builders involved on small sites and refurbishment work are being advised to make sure their paperwork is up-to-date or face risking an untimely fine from Health & Safety Executive (HSE).

Vigilance still needed despite doubts on the fee for intervention

Builders are being urged to maintain a high level of vigilance in the running of their businesses to ensure that they do not undertake a material breach of health and safety law and receive a fine under the controversial Fee For Intervention (FFI) scheme.