Three and a bit years ago, I wrote a damning comment piece for Cranes Today’s sister title about how its response to a lifting accident involving a coil was misleading. I’d concluded at the time that the HSE was more reactive than proactive and struggled to put a positive spin on its existence.
Over time, that opinion changed. Indeed, I think the HSE itself has for a long time been trying to improve its image. With great responsibility placed upon its shoulders, probably on a tight budget, it has an important role to play.
My respect grew further last month (November) when Phil Parry, HSE specialist inspector, electrical and control systems group, delivered a solid presentation to visitors to this year’s LiftEx show (held at the Chester Racecourse, UK), exploring the use of remote controls.
Parry’s talk was an example of the more proactive approach that I think the HSE has been trying to take.
Then, for this issue’s interview (p19), I spoke with Philip White, head of the construction division, and was refreshingly impressed by his approach and willingness to engage with folk in industry.
The HSE recently announced that its national tower crane register will become effective next April and with it, White hopes, the UK could take a huge step towards avoiding a repeat of “Canada Square, Worthing, Croydon and Battersea,” to name some of the high profile examples he refers to, and, indeed, Liverpool earlier this year.
The GBP20 per register entry fee is a small price to pay in return. I hope it works.
