Ireland OSHA Clarifies Grave Digging Activity

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) in Ireland recently issued clarification in relation to work activity at graveyards and cemeteries under the control of Local Authorities.

 

 

Contrary to some recent reports, the Health and Safety Authority has not prohibited in any way the traditional custom of family members assisting with the digging of a loved ones grave. The digging of graves by family members and friends is clearly not done as employees and does not come under the remit of the HSA. The HSA has not issued any new guidance which could restrict this practice. (WCxKit)

 

 

The HSA has recently developed, in conjunction with the Local Authority Safety Advisors Group (LASAG), a safe system of work plan for employers and employees when working in graveyards and cemeteries. This primarily deals with construction work which often takes place in these locations. The system was developed solely for employers and employees and not for any other parties, including relatives and loved ones of the deceased.

 

 

According to Paula Gough, program manager with the HSA, “In working with the local authorities, our aim is to support them in having safe places of work for their employees. We are surprised that any local authority would take what are designed to be workplace safety measures for employees and apply them to members of the public.  The Health and Safety Authority has had no role to play in these developments.”