Building site shut amid safety concerns
A construction site in Co Kerry was closed down today amid serious concerns over work practices.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) moved to shut down the site as it claimed conditions posed a serious risk to workers.
“While we cannot comment on the specifics of this or any case, the construction industry in general has a high level of work-related fatalities and it is a sector which the Authority must take very seriously,” a spokesman said.
Judge Peter Kelly today granted an order in the High Court under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 1989, against John J Casey Project Management Ltd of Poulavone, Ballincollig in Co Cork.
The Order was granted to the Authority to close the housing development at Barr na Sraide, Ballyheigue in Co Kerry.
“It is the Authority’s policy to seek a working partnership with the construction industry to resolve safety issues as quickly and effectively and possible,” a HSA spokesman said after the High Court case.
“However, where engagement and cooperation is not forthcoming, the Authority will not hesitate in seeking the assistance of the High Court to ensure that workers’ lives are not put at risk.”
The Authority gave evidence that conditions at the site still posed serious risks, despite six visits to the site since last April, three enforcement notices issued and a voluntary closure of the site in June.
Counsel for the HSA told the court that unsafe practices observed at the site included work being carried out at high levels from the ground without necessary safety protection. Evidence was also given of incomplete safety documentation, inadequate safety management systems, as well as inadequate toilet and canteen facilities.
Judge Kelly said he was granting the Order to close the project due to the danger to the life and limbs of workers on the site.
He described photographs of the site as frightening, adding that the company had been given many opportunities to improve the site.
