The construction industry in Scotland will get the opportunity to learn how it can contribute to the success of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games at a special event organised by the Scottish Construction Forum (SCF) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
The "Aiming High - Landing Safely" seminar will highlight health and safety best practice in the run up to the London 2012 Olympics and how the lessons learned will help raise the bar for the Glasgow 2014 Games and beyond. The event will also remind firms of the wider health and safety issues that affect the construction industry. The event takes place at Glasgow City Chambers on 18 February, 9.00 am - 1.00pm, and includes lunch.
The seminar will be particularly relevant for organisations wishing to be part of the delivery of the Games - from infrastructure projects to transport provision and leisure and recreation services. Archie Ferguson, Chairman of SCF, is clear that despite the economic situation and its effects on the construction industry, ongoing attention to health and safety, in the workplace is of vital importance.
He said: "This seminar presents an opportunity to update key players in the construction industry. The benefits to be gained in terms of awareness raising and enhanced knowledge and understanding will be particularly important, but also very pertinent in light of forthcoming major developments in Scotland including the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
"We have achieved a major coup in securing Stephen Williams to be the keynote speaker at the event. Stephen is currently HSE's Chief Inspector of Construction with responsibility for health and safety for the whole of the British construction industry. He also holds the key post of HSE Regional Director for London and the Olympic Games, and he will shortly be focussing more on these last 2 roles. To secure an official of this calibre to speak is significant, and I'd urge companies to come along to find out how they can ensure the legacy of a safer and healthier event."
Jeanette Reuben, HSE's Head of Operations (Construction) in Scotland added: "The construction industry faces trying times in the current difficult economic climate. But this is definitely not the time to cut corners in health and safety. I urge the industry to show ownership and leadership to ensure its capability for the future. Good health and safety practices help projects run on time and to budget, essentials irrespective of the business environment.
"Significant projects like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games provide opportunities to make major steps forward in health and safety, and I hope the industry in Scotland will seize them."
Harry Frew, Regional Secretary of the Union of Construction Allied Trades (UCATT), commented: "I am delighted that SCF is giving health and safety a high priority. This seminar will further highlight issues and ultimately contribute to protecting workers in the front line of construction."
Other key speakers at the event include Jim Mather, Minister for Enterprise, Energy and Tourism; Tim Clarke, Divisional Managing Director, Balfour Beatty Construction; and Mark McEwan, Senior Manager, Capital Investment, Scottish Water. Steven Purcell, Leader of Glasgow City Council, will open the event. There will be an open panel discussion where event attendees will be able to put their questions to the speakers.
Places for the event are limited, so early booking is advisable. For more information call 01786 820 254 or visit http://www.intel-events.co.uk/scf
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