With increased focus on building upgrades and construction activity in the Western Cape - in preparation for 2010 - safety is a top priority in the construction industry. This has been further highlighted by the announcement of the regional Health and Safety Award winners, at the Master Builders Association Western Cape’s (MBAWC) Annual General Meeting, held at the Belmont Square Conference Centre.

According to Deon Bester, Occupational Health and Safety Advisor of the MBAWC, an increase in construction activity in the Western Cape has lead to an expected increase of health and safety issues, specifically surrounding larger projects. However he says there are several companies in the construction industry who are outshining the rest and ensuring the safety of their builders and contractors.

“With entries in excess of 80 we have had a phenomenal response from the industry this year, which clearly indicates our members’ commitment to health and safety. Eight of the Western Cape entrants have made it through to be judge in the national Health and Safety Competition,” says Bester.

The annual competition, which has been running since 1967, extends over a four month period and a Master

Builders South Africa (MBSA) audit system is used to judge each of the sites entered. “The audit comprises a legal administrative section and a physical inspection of the site. There are 19 sections judged including among others, fire risks and the management thereof; temporary electrical installations; machinery on site; scaffolding and formwork; as well as support work, fall protection and staff welfare, amongst others,” explains Bester.

According to Bester the primary objective of the safety competition was to establish members’ compliance with the statutory regulations as well as to promote competition, to ultimately improve the overall health and safety of the workforce.

“The standard of entries this year was exceptionally high and we are proud to be associated with examples of such supreme quality workmanship and dedication,” concludes Bester.