THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minor defects have been found out at the inspections held by Vigilance department in 36 road and bridge construction sites of Public Works department, following the death of a youth after falling into a pit in Thrippunithura. Although there were initial safety precautions, the fault was found in matters including the safety of workers. It was directed to rectify this immediately and the concerned officials should submit to report to the Chief Engineers.

The precautions at construction sites were increased as per the immediate instructions of Minister P A Muhammed Riyas given to Chief Engineers.The inspection team recommended that the name of the construction work and the phone numbers of the contractor and the officer in charge must be placed on board in sites. A warning board should be set up. Safety measures should also be taken as stated in the estimate or as directed by the engineer. Depending on the nature of the work, there should be barricades, security at night, and reflective sign boards. Workers should wear helmets, face shields and safety shoes.

If these safety measures are not followed, then case will be taken against contractor, overseer and engineers in charge, warned the minister.