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New construction site health tool

In a bid to help the construction industry tackle occupational health issues, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has launched a new online resource, Construction Occupational Health Management Essentials (COHME). HSE says last year 1.8 million days were lost in the construction industry due to work related ill-health compared to 0.9 million days lost due to accidents. HSE chief construction inspector Stephen Williams said: 'We want occupational health to move up the agenda for all construction companies. Large companies can show real leadership in influencing this cultural change. Properly managing occupational health is not a new legal requirement and we expect to see good practice in the industry. The COHME tool will equip all construction companies with practical advice on how to tackle rising occupational health issues such as dermatitis, asbestos, respiratory diseases and musculoskeletal disorders.' He added: 'The COHME tool will facilitate the initiative and leadership that the construction industry needs to take to tackle the occupational health issue. I urge large construction companies to act on this, with smaller companies adopting this as a part of the supply chain process. Time is ticking and now is the time to show ownership of this issue.'

• HSE news release. Construction Occupational Health Management Essentials (COHME). TUC construction page

Briefing document (300 words) issued 8 Feb 2008