BOHS unveils Breathe Freely initiative

The purpose of this initiative is to prevent occupational lung disease in the construction industry.

In 2015 approximately 3500 will die from occupational cancer caused by past exposures in construction, 500 from silica dust exposure. The HSE indicates that there are 100 times more deaths from work related illnesses in the construction sector than deaths from accidents.

Targeted specifically at managers and site supervisors within construction, the aim is not just to raise awareness of the problem but also to effect action by providing practical solutions through sharing of best practice and encouraging implementation of effective exposure control.

Launching the initiative on Worker Memorial Day, distinguished speakers included Clive Johnson, group head of Health and Safety for Land Securities, Lawrence Waterman OBE, managing partner at Park Health and Safety Services, Professor David Fishwick, consultant respiratory physician and HSL’s chief medical officer, and Mike Slater, president of BOHS.

The Breathe Freely initiative will provide practical advice and information on:

• A new Worker Health Protection Management Standard, which is a free tool developed specifically for the construction industry setting out good practice for managing health risks
• 20 fact sheets developed for twenty different trades highlighting the main hazards, highest risks and preferred control options
• How occupational hygienists can help recognise, evaluate and control the hazards on site viawww.breathefreely.org.uk