SAFETY experts are turning their attention to the building industry in North Yorkshire.

Health and Safety Executive construction inspectors are targeting work being carried out during the "fit-out" phase of projects in the county.

The inspections are part of a nationwide campaign to reduce the number of fall and trip injuries in the final stages of construction projects.

Falls and trips were the cause of more than half of major injuries in the construction sector during 2003-04.

There is a higher potential risk of such incidents during the fit-out phase of projects, because of the numerous trades people working in the same area.

They are often cluttered with various kit and materials, and up against the added pressure of tight deadlines for completion of the job.

The county's principal construction inspector, Chris Smith, said: "Principal contractors and contractors need to work together to ensure that all work at height is planned, organised and carried out by competent people using the right equipment.

"Tripping hazards can be easily avoided if sites are well organised and kept tidy.

"All workers on site should take ownership - if they see a problem to do with falls or trips, they should report it and sort it."