Security is being increased at all Housing Ministry construction sites in Bahrain, said a top government official.

Each site will have a single designated entry point and guards will ensure only authorised personnel and vehicles gain access.

Information boards providing illustrations and details of the project, the contractors involved, when work started, the expected completion date and health and safety requirements will also be erected.

"Under the theme 'care for all', attention will be given to sites from the start of construction all the way through to occupation by tenants," said Assistant Under-Secretary Sami Buhazza.

"We want to ensure that there is a clear barrier between the surrounding area and the construction site to minimise the visual impact of the construction activities and to provide a sense of privacy and safety to the immediate neighbours.

"Although it is not possible to fully take away the inconveniences that a construction site gives to its neighbours, the new fencing is expected to substantially improve this."

Buhazza said the new fencing would also help ensure safety.

"For the general public there are some safety risks associated with construction sites and the purpose of the new fencing therefore is also to protect the public from possible injuries," he said.

Buhazza said that the theme 'care for all' also covers the construction workers on site.

"The ministry in co-operation with the Labour Ministry has an occupational health and safety system in place that is mandatory for all construction companies and compliance is part of the tendering evaluation criteria," he said.

"This system helps protect construction workers from the risk of accidents.

"With the substantial increase in the number of projects and with the development of more advanced construction techniques and the need to go fast track, the ministry is currently also updating its health and safety manual and practices.

"The new health and safety manual in combination with training sessions for construction workers and regular safety and health site visits by the Labour Ministry as well as our ministry is continuing to provide a solid basis for a safe and healthy work environment." – TradeArabia News Service