MIDI plc has, since its inception, identified health and safety as a fundamental key element for the success of its project and has invested in setting up a Health and Safety office manned with qualified personnel to ensure that the expected standard of health and safety is maintained at all times and that all measures are taken to prevent physical and psychological occupational ill-health, injury or death in compliance with the relevant local Health and Safety legislation and EU Directives.

Over the years the Midi Health and Safety Office has been responsible for an average of over 300 site workers a day, as well as numerous other private contractors and tradesmen. This office falls under the direct charge of the Chief Executive and Company Secretary. Midi plc’s Health and Safety Supervisor Mr. Noel Abela project explained the importance of stimulating the contractors’ commitment and level of awareness about health and safety issues.

“MIDI plc insists that all tenders being submitted by contractors have the respective health and safety provisions included and that they are also indicated in the Bills of Quantities,” Mr Abela said. “The submission of Health and Safety Plans and Risk Assessments by the contractors to the Health and Safety office is one of the main obligations.”

A matrix system is used to monitor contractors’ compliance. Near misses are also investigated and recorded to ensure that similar occurrences are avoided. All contractors are made aware of these instances to aid them in the prevention of accidents.”

The system is monitored by means of daily on-site inspections and weekly joint inspections with contractors and Project Management team members. Monthly meetings are held with contractors at Project Management level for the purpose of updating, discussing and reviewing performances.

Mr Abela explained that strict health and safety measures also apply to visitors on site. “It has always been company policy to control access to the site under construction. Although visitors to the unfinished areas of the site are required to wear safety gear, some are not keen to comply. “Security personnel are given the task of escorting visitors during their visits to the sites and to ensure that the required protective equipment is worn in line with the site’s health and safety rules. Green routes are also utilized to further increase the margin of safety.

“In the early days of the project this was all deemed rather excessive. However there is now much more awareness about the health and safety aspect, which can only be a positive thing.”