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Health and Safety Inspections

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020

Tuesday, 3 November 2020

Questions (197)

Bríd Smith

Question:

197. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of onsite inspections by HSA personnel of construction sites since the announcement of level 5 restrictions; the findings of these onsite inspections in relation to Covid-19 protocols and guidelines; the number of complaints to the HSA regarding workplaces and breaches of Covid-19 guidelines since level 5 restrictions were put in place [33317/20]

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Written answers

Since the introduction of Level 5 restrictions under the National Framework for Living with COVID-19 the Health and Safety Authority has undertaken 27 inspections in the construction sector of which 14 addressed COVID-19 measures.

I have been informed that the findings from the inspections addressing COVID-19 indicate the following;

- 86% of workplaces had COVID-19 measures in place.

- 86% of workplaces had COVID-19 Response plans in place.

- 64% of workplaces had a Lead Worker Rep.

In 43% of cases a report of inspection was issued in relation to the COVID-19 control measures in place. A report of inspection sets out areas where improvements should be made.

I am further informed that the Health and Safety Authority has received 16 complaints around COVID-19 measures in the same period in relation to workplaces in other sectors. These complaints are being followed-up by the Authority.

I would add that, overall, the Health and Safety Authority has noted a high level of compliance with the Return to Work Safely Protocol, to date, across all sectors which is a positive indication that the majority of employers and employees are taking a responsible and proactive approach to compliance with the Protocol.

In addition to inspections, the Health and Safety Authority continues to provide advice and support to employers and employees on how best to implement COVID-19 measures in the workplace through its helpline and website. It has also developed checklists and templates for use by employers, workers and worker representatives, and further material is being developed.

Any employee who has concerns about compliance with COVID-19 issues, or any other workplace health and safety issue, can contact the Health and Safety Authority Workplace Contact Unit (WCU) on a confidential basis at 1890 289 389 or by sending an email to wcu@hsa.ie. If following such a complaint, there are serious concerns about a particular workplace, the Health and Safety Authority, or another agency or tasked with inspecting workplace compliance with the Protocol, will follow-up as appropriate.

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