Six figure fine for leg and hand injuries

Leicester Magistrates’ Court heard how an employee of Boal UK Limited and 4 others were carrying out maintenance work to an aluminium extrusion machine. They were placing a new stem in place using a chain mesh sling. The injured person was operating the overhead travelling crane with a remote pendant. As the stem was being manoeuvred into position, it fell, striking him on his hand and leg. His injuries required surgical amputation to the tops of 3 fingers. He also suffered a fractured tibia.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that an unsafe system of work had been used. No risk assessment had been carried out of the work required to remove and refit the stem. It was also found that employees undertaking the work were inadequately trained.

Boal UK Limited of Ashby Road East, Shepshed, Leicestershire pleaded guilty to breaching Sections 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and have been fined £133,000 and ordered to pay costs of £6,346.30.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Michelle Morrison commented, “Those in control of work have a responsibility to devise safe methods of working and to provide the necessary information, instruction and training to their workers in the safe system of working.”

“Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate action against those that fall below the required standards”.