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This stakeholder forum was an opportunity for a wide range of users and professionals to discuss the issues relating to handling plasterboard.
The movement of heavy plasterboard can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and personal harm can be gradual and progressive over a long time. Finding ways of reducing the risks has been a long standing objective of FPDC and HSE and we were very pleased to take an active part in the stakeholder forum as a means of moving this issue forward.
Although our primary concern must be the individuals working with the materials, we also have to ensure that our members are able to minimise risk of exposure to future claims, by providing working practices, guidance and training.
The forum was hosted by the HSE and a range of speakers were invited to present on the topic. Speakers included an HSE Ergonomist (dealing with the physical risks of lifting and moving boards), Martin Johnson of FPDC on the issues from a Drylining Contractor viewpoint, the plasterboard manufacturers, an Architect, Main Contractor, and Union representative. A debate followed which confirmed the importance of working together to ensure that any approaches reflect realities of work on site and can provide a level playing field for all contractors to ensure widespread adoption.
Further meetings will be convened over the coming months to develop ideas and solutions. Solutions are likely to include, but will not be limited to, • guidance on the maximum board weights and sizes to be used for certain tasks• development of standard markings for boards showing the weights of boards and recommendations for use• recommendations on working practices and the suitability of tools and handling equipment• raising awareness of responsibilities of the design team for board handling safety, including under the Construction, Design and Management Regulations 2007.
FPDC will continue to be involved in this initiative, representing the needs of our members. The presentation that FPDC made on 12 March was prepared with input from Contractor Member representatives on the FDPC Health and Safety task group and is available for members to view. » Click here to read the Stakeholder meeting presentation from FPDC delivered on 12.3.09.
Martin Johnson, Technical Director will be pleased to receive any comments or answer questions from Members. Martin.johnson@fpdc.org, or by telephone on 01205 481229.