HSE Flags Equipment Handling as a Growing Risk on UK Sites
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a warning to UK construction firms following a series of injuries involving unsafe use of hand and power tools across multiple sites. As detailed by Construction Enquirer, incidents ranged from lacerations and eye injuries to more serious harm due to defective tools and lack of proper training.
The HSE emphasised that tool-related incidents are often preventable and usually arise from poor maintenance, inadequate supervision, and unqualified operatives handling equipment without proper instruction or oversight.
Why Tool Safety Must Be Taken Seriously
Site managers and contractors have legal duties under PUWER 1998 (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) to ensure that:
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All tools and equipment are fit for use and regularly inspected
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Workers are trained and competent in the specific tools they are using
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Supervisors ensure tools are used safely and as intended
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Damaged or untested tools are taken out of circulation immediately
The recent rise in incidents has placed greater pressure on companies to review their tool safety processes and ensure all staff have the correct qualifications.
NVQs That Embed Safe Equipment Use and Supervision
At All Star Safety, we offer NVQs that integrate safe equipment operation and supervisory responsibility, including:
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Level 2 NVQ in General Construction Operations or Plant Operations – covering safe use of tools and plant
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Level 4 NVQ in Construction Site Supervision – with units on enforcing safe working methods
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Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management – embedding PUWER awareness and safety leadership
These qualifications not only promote compliance but also reduce downtime and incidents caused by misuse or oversight.
How All Star Safety Can Help
✔ Nationwide NVQ assessments delivered on-site or remotely
✔ Training and toolbox talk development focused on tool safety
✔ Site audits to assess PUWER compliance and equipment inspection regimes
✔ Health and safety consultancy to improve workforce competence and safe systems of work
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402
📞 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk