The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a call to construction companies across the UK, urging them to significantly enhance site security measures as the school holidays draw near. This proactive warning aims to prevent tragic incidents involving children who might gain unauthorised access to construction sites, which are inherently dangerous environments. The HSE emphasises that site managers and contractors have a clear legal and moral duty to safeguard the public, especially vulnerable children, from the numerous hazards present on active and inactive construction sites.
Warning issued as school holidays approach, increasing child risk
Construction sites have historically been associated with serious injuries and fatalities involving children, although such incidents are relatively rare. Children may enter these sites out of curiosity and can be exposed to significant risks, including falls from height, moving machinery, unstable structures and hazardous materials. The upcoming school break may increase this risk, as children have more free time and may be more likely to access unsecured or poorly controlled construction areas. To help prevent incidents, the HSE has set out specific steps that construction firms should take to secure sites and reduce the risk of unauthorised access.
It is very important to erect suitable perimeter fencing or hoarding around all construction sites. This physical barrier must be robust enough to deter access and should be appropriate for the nature of the site and its surrounding area, particularly in residential zones or near public footpaths. Regular inspections and maintenance of these barriers are essential to ensure they remain intact and effective, as damaged fencing can easily be breached.
Furthermore, sites must be adequately secured at the end of each working day. This includes ensuring all gates are locked, and any potential entry points are sealed. Excavations and pits, which pose significant fall hazards, must be securely barrier-off or covered over to prevent accidental falls. Vehicles and plant machinery should be isolated, immobilised, and, wherever possible, locked within a secure compound to prevent tampering or accidental activation.
The safe storage of building materials is another critical aspect of site security. Items such as pipes, manhole rings, and cement bags must be stacked or stored in a manner that prevents them from toppling or rolling over, which could cause severe crushing injuries. Access ladders, particularly those leading into excavations or onto scaffolds, must be removed at the end of the workday to eliminate easy routes for unauthorised entry. Finally, all hazardous substances, including chemicals and fuels, must be securely locked away to prevent exposure or ingestion.
HSE’s Mike Thomas underscored the urgency of the situation, stating: “Construction site managers should check their sites are secure, and in areas where children live and play, they should remain vigilant and ensure that the risks to children are properly controlled. Construction sites are places of work and contain numerous hazards, all of which can pose a dangerous threat to anyone entering without permission. Clients and contractors must ensure that unauthorised access onto sites is prevented, both during and outside working hours.”
The HSE reiterates that site security is not merely a best practice but a fundamental legal responsibility under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, specifically Regulations 13(4), 15(10), and 4(6), which address preventing unauthorised access. Adherence to these regulations is crucial for protecting local communities and preventing preventable tragedies. The HSE provides comprehensive guidance, including HSG 151 – Protecting the public, and CIS72 – Protecting the public: What you need to know as a busy builder, to assist companies in managing these risks effectively.
This story was originally published by HSE Media Centre.
