On construction sites, workers are exposed to particularly high risks of accidents, with typical incidents such as falls, burial of persons, or accidents involving construction or rail machines often having severe consequences. It is positive to note that no fatal occupational accidents on construction sites were recorded in Saarland last year. The LUA only had to investigate accidents on construction sites in four cases.
Monitoring is not only necessary to prevent accidents but also generally to ensure the health protection of employees. The politically desired and sensible energy renovation of existing buildings inevitably leads to employees on construction sites being exposed to hazardous substances, such as asbestos, in many cases. In this respect, it is correct that the LUA, as in previous years, focused on the inspection of construction sites in 2023. A total of 482 violations were identified.
Another focus was on construction sites in the area of fiber optic expansion. Although these sites have a lower risk potential compared to other construction sites, they were subject to increased inspections due to complaints about the general working conditions.
“The safety and health of employees on construction sites is our highest priority. The 2023 Trade Supervisory Report clearly shows how important continuous and targeted monitoring is to prevent workplace accidents and minimize health hazards. Especially in the area of fiber optic expansion, we are committed to ensuring fair and safe working conditions so that the expansion does not come at the expense of the employees,” explains State Secretary for Labor Bettina Altesleben.
To improve working conditions on fiber optic construction sites, the Ministry of Labour of Saarland also advocated for nationwide measures at the Labour and Social Ministers' Conference on December 4 and 5, 2024, in Hamburg. Together with Rhineland-Palatinate, two motions were successfully submitted.
More detailed information about the monitoring activities of the LUA as well as the newly published activity report of the Saarland occupational safety administration 2023 can be found here: www.arbeitsschutz.saarland.de
