The HSE is currently compiling final results for the campaign – but initial figures show that nearly half the sites visited had serious safety failings.

The high failure rate has prompted the Unite union to call for increased funding for the HSE to carry-out more site inspections.

Unite assistant general secretary Gail Cartmail said: “The HSE’s spot checks throughout September are proof that the Executive needs more capacity and funding.

“The extent of the breaches uncovered also shows why trade union health and safety committees are so important in the construction industry and why we need more.

“The ending of the spot checks will be manna from heaven for the worst employers and unfair to employers who work with unions to get it right. The government’s attack on health and safety must be reversed.”

Here are some examples of what the HSE inspectors found last month:

Inspectors found workers safety hanging in the balance on this site

Electrical safety given no consideration at this refurbishment site

Would you use this ladder at the top of a four lift scaffold?

Insufficient support at this site