The Association of Technical Lightning and Access Specialists (Atlas) 2016 Accident Survey shows the fantastic safety standards achieved by its members. No fatalities were recorded for the eighth consecutive year and only one reportable injury, meaning the incidence rate for all types of accidents was the lowest ever recorded at 1,053 per 100,000 workers. This is also shown in the accident frequency rate (hours worked per accident), which also decreased to the lowest ever recorded, meaning ATLAS members worked 167,466 hours without an accident.
The survey results for 2016 covered 1,524 operatives, and only one specified injury was reported due to a fall from height at less than two metres. The Atlas specified injury rate was 70.2 per 100,000 workers which was 39% lower than the wider industry rate of 114.19 per 100,000 workers. The ATLAS over 7-day injury rate was an outstanding 0 per 100,000 workers, showing the dedication of Atlas members to health and safety.
Atlas is committed to reducing accident incidence rates within the construction industry in partnership with Build UK, and the results speak for themselves! Atlas issues regular guidance and will be launching the steel chimney and winching guides later on this year.
Atlas immediate past president, Jason Harfield, said: “In an industry where working at height is an average day in the office for Atlas members, it’s vital to maintain exceptional safety standards in this high risk environment. This has been proven in the results of last years’ survey, where Atlas accident rates are the lowest ever recorded. Training is hugely valued by Atlas, therefore all members have undertaken our compulsory courses, ensuring they are best placed to carry out work safely and to a high standard.”