The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has appointed Peter Baker as its new chief inspector of construction.
Mr. Baker, who is currently head of HSE’s chemicals, explosives and microbiological hazards division, will replace Philip White – who has been acting interim chief since Heather Bryant left HSE in September 2014 – on April 1, 2015.
Peter Baker said:
“I am delighted to be appointed as the chief inspector of construction, and I am very much looking forward to working collaboratively with the whole of the construction industry to continue the progress it has made in reducing ill health and injury in recent years.
“In particular, I want to ensure the industry responds in a sensible and proportionate manner to the revised CDM Regulations. All changes bring challenges, and I want the industry to work together in focussing on the real health and safety risks to workers’ lives.
“I believe that industry leaders also have a critical role to play, and have seen in the major hazard sectors how vital clear and positive leadership is to achieving the effective management and control of risks.”
The HSE says construction is one of Britain’s most important industries, employing over two million people. Vast improvements have been made in the sector in recent years however it remains one of Britain’s most dangerous industries to work in. The organisation says its post of chief inspector of construction is hugely influential in working with and encouraging industry to drive up health and safety standards.
Philip White, who will continue to act as head of HSE’s operational strategy division, said:
“I’m very pleased to be handing over to Peter whose extensive experience of managing high hazard industries for HSE stands him in excellent stead to provide leadership for an industry which despite its vast improvements, still has a lot to do.”
