EU Expansion Faulted for Rise in UK Construction Deaths
Jim Sheridan, a Labour MP says that the sharp rise in construction deaths can be blamed on the expansion of the European Union. Sheridan says that the 32 percent rise in deaths is a "particularly worrying trend" and may be linked to an influx of workers from Europe. Sheridan says that immigrants do not have inferior working skills or dedication, but that the problem lies in workplaces that aren't doing enough to accommodate those who don't speak English.
Andrew Selous, a conservative MP, says that a good example of the problem is a construction company who has signs written in multiple languages in the canteen, but only signs in English on the actual construction site. Michael Clapham MP, who has raised the debate as to whether corporations can be held guilty for manslaughter, says: "More needs to be done. Ucatt's concerns deserve to be addressed to ensure a positive health and safety culture within the construction industry."
Related Links:
Legal View: Construction Accidents
Italy: Work-Related Accidents and Deaths on the Rise
Trade Union Congress
Public Affairs: EU Backstage
Legal View: Construction Accidents