9th April 2010, 06:41 AM
Geli Wrote:Just a thought to cross pollenate to the unionisation issue - would it be worth looking into a job specific CSCS card for archaeology? As many have pointed out already: the card doesn't really seem aimed at us and many of the issues the training aims to address doesn't really enter into our working life. Sure we face hazards such as moving plant etc so it's useful on those points, but little else seems applicable.
The problem with CSCS cards or any similar schemes of that ilk is that they actually run contrary to the fundamentals of the H&S at Work Act which is that each and every site/task performed in the workplace should be accompanied by a risk assessment which should be regularly reviewed and updated as and when circumstances require. If anything archaeologists should be pointing out that 'generic' H&S regimes such as typified by the CSCS scheme are potentially dangerous for archaeologists and other workers. So I would say 'No' to an archaeological card, but 'Yes' to full and proper implementation of the H&S at Work Act....
With peace and consolation hath dismist, And calm of mind all passion spent...