Fitness for work, fitness for life - free event

On average, 20 tradesmen a week die from asbestos exposure. On 26 February 2013 , construction industry experts will be on hand to offer free advice and guidance to those who work in trades, during a half day event at Cheltenham Racecourse.

Cheltenham Borough Council, the Health and Safety Executive and a number of private businesses are supporting the event which has been organised by the South West Working Well Together Group. The free morning session is the perfect opportunity for people in the construction industry to gain a better understanding of some of their key health and safety responsibilities.

Starting with breakfast at 8am and running through until 1.30pm , talks and demonstrations will focus on: asbestos awareness; silica dust and the effect on a person’s lungs; exposure to noise; safety clothing and masks; and protection against hand/arm vibration caused by power tools and machinery.  There will also be a free exhibition from suppliers of the latest protection equipment.

Sadie Hawson, senior environmental health officer at the council said:  ‘’This is a unique opportunity for some high quality training, free of charge for those who work in the construction industry.  Training of this nature is important for the welfare of tradesmen and it also helps to ensure that Cheltenham continues to be a safe place to live in and visit.’’

Places must be booked by 22 February, contact Yvonne Mazzotta on 0117 988 6012 or email [email protected]. 

For press enquiries contact: Katie Sandey, communications team leader, telephone 01242 775050 or email [email protected]