Against proposed change

In response to a Health and Safety Executive consultation that proposes changes to how injuries are reported, the Chartered Institute of Building has labelled the move 'a retrograde step' for high risk industries.

The proposed amendment to RIDDOR would extend the need to report an injury from the current over three days to over seven. This change is aimed to coincide with the requirement for individuals to obtain a fit note from their GP if they expect to be absent for more than a week.

Adam Hollis, CIOB, said: "We understand the motive to reduce the number of reports businesses have to make. But high-risk industries like construction are different to others and should be seen that way. In our view this change poses a risk to the safety of construction workers and the industry's ability to spot hazards before they become more serious."