The meeting was opened up by Chair David Cant and began with a review of the results of the FIS Annual H&S Survey. A number of points were drawn out around key concerns, but overall the survey demonstrated a strong performance from the community in terms of accident frequency rates.
On Dust: Joe Marais, Trolex gave an update on dust monitoring and led into a discussion on future monitoring that they will be undertaking on real-time dust monitoring for drylining operations. Scott McGibbon spoke about the need for renew focus on silica dust and work he has been commissioned by CIOB to do in terms of developing guidance. The group also discussed RPE options and the need to revisit, through planned FIS work, not just the improved guidance advocated at the last meeting with the BSIF, but to look at legal responsibility of providing expensive equipment to self-employed workers refusing to shave and how employers can manage associated costs and contra charges.
Knife Safety: The group discussed the latest FIS guidance proposed on knife safety, noting a low accident rate with fixed blade knives when used correctly. This guide will be published w/c 7 July.
Pallet Safety: They inefficiency of current pallet trucks for moving plasterboard and the potential for a new, more suitable design and supporting guidance was discussed.
Manual Handling: FIS updated on e-learning in development with Mike Lordan at Construction People Skills regarding Manual Handling Processes and Davey Snowdon from Pristine spoke about lifting techniques and training options.
AOB raised related to the practicality of board lifters for ceilings, noting challenges with implementation of and suggesting a collaborative approach to improve manual handling practices.
The minutes and actions can be accessed here.
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