The MPA publishes public safety guidelines for quarry sites

The UK’s Mineral Products Association (MPA) has published new public safety guidelines for the management of both operational and non-operational quarries. The guidelines form part of the MPA’s ‘Stay Safe’ campaign, and are designed to complement operators’ existing statutory duties.

The MPA has worked with its members and stakeholders to produce the guidelines, following a spate of quarry incidents in the summer of 2013. The hot weather led to a number of drowning accidents at disused and non-operational quarry sites, including six deaths across the UK in a period of just two months. The MPA hosted a summit in November 2013 to address the issue of quarry public safety and how it can be improved. A number of initiatives are due to be implemented as a result of these talks.

“These guidelines are the first of a series of public safety initiatives planned for this year. Going forward, we will continue to collaborate with relevant groups on key issues such as signage, public education associated with open water swimming and exploring alternative approaches to the management of disused sites,” said Nigel Jackson, MPA Chief Executive. “With the Easter holidays approaching, we urge all operators, landowners and others who have responsibility for quarry sites to check their fencing, signage, safety devices and security arrangements.”

Adapted from press release by Louise Fordham

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/europe-cis/04042014/mpa_publishes_new_quarry_public_safety_guidelines_998/