Worcestershire | Archive | 2005 | July | 29
From the archive, first published Friday 29th Jul 2005.
WITH the summer holidays well and truly under way, a local contractor has taken great steps to forewarn children of the dangers of playing on building sites.
Thomas Vale Constr-uction, eight times British Safety Council award winner, is educating curious children by allowing them an insight into construction. Under the SPLAAT initiative (Safe Play At All Times) the Stourport-on-Severn based firm has done 12 presentations since January, at a variety of schools stretching across the Midlands.
Each session includes the opportunity for the children to try on safety equipment and a video illustrating some of the dangers of playing on site.
Mike Oakley, health and safety manager for Thomas Vale, said: "By educating children and satisfying their curiosity in this way we hope to prevent unnecessary accidents.
"While building sites may look like play grounds, there are potential, hidden dangers.
"For example, piles of bricks and materials that could fall on unsuspecting heads, unfinished scaffolding that could easily collapse when climbed, heavy plant and equipment being interfered with, and foundation holes filled with water.
"It is not about scare-mongering but about educating children, informing them of the dangers and ensuring they can all enjoy their summer holiday."
© Newsquest Media Group 2008