European Safety week commences on the 21st to the 25th of October. There are five broad topics being covered which include,

1. Mental Health and Wellbeing in Construction
2. Working Safely with Electricity
3. Working Safely at Height
4. Vehicle Risk & Safety in Lifting Operations
5. Working Safely with Hazardous Substances

Take time next week to consider whether you are exposed to any of these hazards and to consider whether more could be done in your workplace.

More information is available at https://cif.ie/safety-week/

In advance of storm Lorenzo which may strike Ireland this week it is worthwhile carrying out a review of "normal" activities in light of what are expected to be entirely abnormal weather conditions.

Areas which may be affected by this storm are likely to include,

• Driving to, from and for work.
• Movement of materials  stored externally and which may be affected by weather.
• Areas of your work locations which are partially constructed and which may be affected by high winds.
• The effect of interruptions on utilities to your business and in particular on safety critical aspects of your business.
• Working in remote locations or areas which are elevated.  

Forecasts are preliminary at this point but the expected periods of high winds and rain are expected Thursday 3rd and Friday 4th. Most up to date forecasting can be found at https://www.met.ie/