INSPECTORS targeted Dartford firms in a health and safety blitz. Representatives of the Health and Safety Executive were in town to raise awareness of the main workplace causes of accidents.

Particular attention was paid to falls from heights and transport - the biggest killers. Inspectors also focused on noise, occupational asthma, hand arm vibration, slips, trips and muscular disorders.

Melvyn Stancliffe, one of the eight inspectors, said: "In the last two years 48 notices have been served in the Dartford area, both prohibition and improvement notices. I would advise all businesses in the Dartford area to assess their safety procedures - not just in the areas we are targeting, but throughout their operations.

"Poor health and safety at work not only puts employees at risk of serious injury, but can also seriously damage profits."

More than 25 million working days are lost every year in Britain because of work-related accidents. The HSE inspectors visit parts of Kent once a month.