CONSTRUCTION companies, agricultural businesses, distribution firms and warehouse operators are the target of a new CD-ROM developed by the Health & Safety Executive to promote transport safety in the workplace.

While the safety of at-work drivers out on the road has been the focus of much HSE attention in recent months, the executive also estimates that about 70 people are killed and 1,200 seriously injured by manoeuvring vehicles and forklift trucks in the workplace.

The interactive virtual reality CD-ROM has been developed to help the HSE assess health, safety and welfare standards in workplace transport. The CD-ROM covers four workplace scenarios – a construction site, farm, distribution depot and a warehouse.

Kevin Jewitt, HSE project officer, said: Four virtual worlds have been created to reflect the industries that workplace transport has the biggest impact on. Some of the simulated accidents are based on real cases reported to the HSE. They include examples of near misses, crush injuries, falling objects and overturns.

'In addition, the viewer can watch examples of poor driving and bad working practices – intended to draw attention to some of the 'avoidable' accidents that occur in many workplaces.'

The CD-ROM, code number MISC482, will be available from the HSE from October 31, free of charge. Call 01787 881165.