HSE Takes Action Over Lack of Supervision After Site Fall Incident
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has taken enforcement action following a serious fall on a UK construction site where no qualified supervision was present. The incident, reported in early April 2025, involved a worker who fell from height during roofing work, with investigators confirming that no competent site supervisor was overseeing operations at the time.
As outlined in the Construction Enquirer article, HSE inspectors have reiterated the legal requirement under CDM 2015 to appoint competent persons to manage and supervise high-risk tasks. This case acts as a stark reminder that employers are responsible for ensuring supervisory staff are trained, qualified, and able to prevent foreseeable risks.
The Legal Duty to Ensure Competent Supervision
Under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, employers and principal contractors must ensure that:
•All construction work is properly planned, managed, and monitored
•Supervisors are equipped with the knowledge and experience to manage risks
•Workers are not exposed to danger due to poor oversight or inadequate planning
Site supervisors are expected to identify risks, enforce safe systems of work, and act on unsafe behaviours—especially during high-risk activities such as working at height.
How NVQs Demonstrate Supervisory Competence
The most widely recognised route for proving supervisory competence is through an NVQ in Construction Site Supervision or Management, such as:
• Level 4 NVQ in Construction Site Supervision
• Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management
These qualifications not only meet legal competency standards but also support CSCS Gold or Black Card applications, providing visible proof of qualification and enhancing contractor credibility.
How All Star Safety Can Help
At All Star Safety, we help employers reduce risk and improve supervisory competence by offering:
✔ NVQ assessments in supervision and site management, delivered flexibly on-site or remotely
✔ Support with CSCS card applications
✔ Health and safety consultancy to assess supervision arrangements and workforce competence
✔ Training tailored to improving site supervision and risk management
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402
📞 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk