Construction Risk Management
Construction Risk Management
Construction Risk Management
No matter what size a job may be, all employers in the construction industry have a legal, moral and economic reason to reduce the risk of injury to personnel.
In the UK, 2.2 million people work in Britain’s construction industry, making it the country’s biggest industry.
It is also one of the most dangerous, although overall it accounts for only about 5% of employees in Britain it still accounts for 27% of fatal injuries to employees and 9% of all reported major injuries.
What is Construction Risk management?
The construction industry is inherently a risky business which is reflected in the insurance premiums that construction companies pay. Risk can come in many shapes and sizes including:
- Pressure to complete a project on time and to budget
- High levels of disputes and litigation
- Intense competition for work
- Pressure to produce a high returns from low margins
- Poor safety and occupational health record
- Pressure to save time and money
- Pressure on health and safety provision
The Turnbull Report brought the requirement for construction companies to implement procedures to manage risk. The aim of effective risk management in construction is to prevent the losses which arise from accidents, loss of money or time, damage to property or loss of reputation.
Why do I need a Construction Risk Management service?
It is often the unforeseen risks that can have the biggest impact on a construction project. Here are some statistics to consider
- Construction accounts for 5% of employees in UK but 27% of fatal injuries
- Over past 5 years, average of 61 persons killed in construction annually (>1 per week)
- Estimated 36,000 NEW cases of work related ill health with rates of musculoskeletal disorder significantly higher than average
- About 2.3 million working days lost per year
- Last year the number of deaths increased
- Average of 3,423 major injuries annually
- Average of 6,990 over 3 day injuries annually
- That means 200 injuries per week, or almost 29 every day
The main causes of the fatal accidents in the construction sector include:
- Falling through fragile roofs and roof lights
- Falling from ladders, scaffolds and other work places
- Being struck by excavators, lift trucks or dumpers
- Being struck by falling loads and equipment
- Being crushed by collapsing structures
At BJP our team of construction brokers can help you to identify and manage the risk within your construction business.
Did you know can provide an integrated project insurance solution? Our Construction Project Insurance can cover you from pre-development, through to building warranty and property insurance. If you are unsure if this service is for you, why not try our online Construction Health and Safety Audit?
Speak to a member of our Construction team today
Specialists in construction risk management
Key Safety Legislation for the Construction Sector
- Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974
- Management of Health, Safety & Welfare Regulations 1999
- Health & Safety Offences Act 2008
- Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2007
- Corporate Manslaughter & Homicide Act 2007