Leitrim construction companies urged to prioritize safety in new CIF campaign

According to a recent press release, the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) has called on Leitrim construction companies to prioritize critical safety risks as part of the 2024 Construction Safety Campaign, running from October 14th to 25th. This year’s campaign is designed to raise awareness about key on-site hazards while also promoting heart health among workers.

Justin Molloy, CIF Director for the North-West, emphasized the need for Leitrim businesses to take a proactive approach. "This year, we are inviting construction companies across Leitrim to redouble their efforts to mitigate critical risks," said Molloy. “These are the activities workers frequently undertake that, if not properly controlled, could result in severe injury or fatality.”

The press release stressed the importance of thoroughly assessing job sites to identify potential hazards such as working at heights, heavy machinery use, and exposure to dangerous materials. The CIF is encouraging construction firms to ensure that appropriate safety controls are in place and that all employees are fully aware of these procedures. "It’s vital for companies to examine whether their safety controls are adequate and to foster a culture where safety is a top priority," Molloy added.

In addition to site safety, this year’s campaign also highlights heart health as a key focus. Recognizing the high levels of physical and mental stress faced by construction workers, the CIF has partnered with the Irish Heart Foundation to raise awareness about cardiovascular health. As part of this initiative, the federation is urging construction companies to provide CPR training to staff. “We are encouraging Leitrim companies to offer CPR training to ensure greater preparedness for heart-related emergencies on site,” Molloy said.

The CIF also continues its collaboration with the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, which offers mental, physical, and emotional support to construction workers and their families across Ireland. "We want to remind everyone in the industry that safety is not just about physical risks—worker well-being is equally important," the CIF stated.

As part of the campaign, Leitrim construction companies are encouraged to host workshops, safety talks, and training sessions to foster a stronger safety culture across the industry. For more information on how to get involved, visit www.cif.ie/safetycampaign.