Protect migrant workers, conference told

It has been claimed innovative partnerships have to be created to improve health and safety in the workplace for migrant workers.

The InterConstruct Conference, organised by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health’s Construction Group, was informed that the construction industry is implementing fresh new methods in an attempt to make these employees aware of safety messages.

Glasgow Caledonian University’s Billy Hare said images can act as an effective way of communicating with workers who have little command of English.

He explained: “There are some critical words, like bomb or fire, that all workers have to know and you want your workers to know these regardless of where they come from.

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Mr Hare stated images help “reinforce” messages and act as a good learning aid.

In 2007-08, 12 migrant workers were among the 72 workers killed on construction sites in the UK.

Earlier this year, the Home Builders Federation claimed such workers have been beneficial in plugging the skills gap in the construction sector.