Increased Enforcement Expected as Supervisory Competence Comes Under Scrutiny
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a warning to contractors following a serious near miss on a high-rise construction project, where poor supervision and unclear task coordination nearly led to a fall from height. As reported by Construction Enquirer, HSE inspectors highlighted a lack of oversight, failure to implement risk assessments, and insufficient planning of temporary edge protection as contributing factors.
The incident did not result in injury, but it has prompted the HSE to announce an increase in enforcement inspections focusing on supervisory competency and safe systems of work—particularly on complex sites such as multi-storey residential and commercial builds.
Why Strong Supervision Prevents Incidents
Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that safety controls are implemented and maintained in real-time. Failures in this case included:
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Poor communication between trades
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Uncoordinated activity on elevated work platforms
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Inadequate checking of edge protection installations
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No evidence of NVQ-based qualifications or formal supervisor training
Incidents like this highlight the need for supervisors who are not only experienced but also formally qualified to lead high-risk tasks.
NVQs That Equip Supervisors for High-Risk Site Leadership
At All Star Safety, we deliver NVQ qualifications that build real-world competence and meet regulatory expectations. These include:
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Level 4 NVQ in Construction Site Supervision – covering work at height, coordination, and task control
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Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management – for overseeing complex build environments
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Level 6 NVQ in Occupational Health and Safety Practice – for dedicated H&S leads on high-risk projects
These NVQs support CSCS Gold or Black Card applications, helping prove competence during HSE inspections or principal contractor assessments.
How All Star Safety Can Help
✔ Remote and on-site NVQ assessments via Quals Direct
✔ Guidance on work at height compliance, temporary works, and risk controls
✔ Site audits to prepare for inspections and improve supervisory performance
✔ Health and safety consultancy tailored to project-specific risk profiles
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402
📞 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk