DORSET’S construction sites will be put under the safety spotlight in a bid to crackdown on work injuries, illness and death.

Until March 16 inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive will be visiting sites in the county where repair and refurbishment work is taking place as part of a national drive to improve standards.

Construction is one of the UK’s most dangerous industries with 29 serious injuries occurring in Dorset last year.

The purpose of the initiative is to remind those working in construction that poor standards are unacceptable and could result in enforcement action.

Jo Teasdale, HSE’s principal inspector for construction in Devon, Cornwall and Dorset, said: “The refurbishment sector continues to be the most risky for construction workers. All too often straightforward practical precautions are not considered and workers are put at risk.

“In many cases simple changes to working practices can make all the difference.”

She added: “As we have demonstrated in the past, we will take strong action if we find evidence that workers are at risk.”