Battersea’s unblemished safety record cause for celebration of our input, says union
Construction workers at Battersea Power Station have gathered to celebrate the achievement of ensuring the 12-year redevelopment of the famous landmark passed without a single serious injury to builders.
It is very rare for such major projects to claim an unblemished safety record and the normal rate of recorded serious injuries might have been expected to reach around 100. Instead their were none.
The Trades Union Council was keen to highlight the work it did in ensuring safety was paramount for the 4,000 Unite construction members involved in construction there.
The event was organised as part of the TUC’s HeartUnions week which highlights why unions are vital for everyone at work and encourages people who aren’t yet in a union to join.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “The amazing safety record at Battersea Power Station in a sector which is the most dangerous in the UK is testament to the dedication and vision of Unite’s shop stewards, safety reps and members.
“This development stands out as an example of what can be achieved when workers have a voice. Unite will continue campaigning to ensure developers and construction firms follow the exemplary standards set at Battersea Power Station.”
Working with Battersea Power Station Development Company, Unite ensured that health and safety reps played a crucial role onsite to ensure workers were not put in danger.
Based on recent HSE data, major construction projects in the UK experience an average of approximately 2,640 non-fatal serious injuries per 100,000 workers. Under the average rate, the Battersea Power Station development should have had over 100 serious accidents instead of zero.
Unite regional officer Declan Murphy said: “I want to acknowledge the importance of the positive day-to-day working relationship with the developer who insisted on the same values from all their construction firms. Unite wants to ensure this relationship continues to complete the remaining phases of the project.”
Spencer Barnshaw, secretary of Battersea and Wandsworth Trades Union Council, said: “Trades union members are very proud of the immense and hugely positive role Unite members played in the redevelopment of what was a huge derelict site and the refurbishment of this world-famous landmark.”
Pictured top: Unite Construction and Battersea and Wandsworth Trades Union Council at Battersea Power Station (Picture: Unite)