Two Companies Fined After Worker Falls through Fragile Rooflight
Two companies paid heavy fines after a worker fell through a fragile factory rooflight. During the fall, the man impaled his leg on machinery below.
As a result the court fined A.T. Lee Properties Limited and LJH Property over £95,000.Additionally, both company directors received conditional discharges and must pay prosecution costs.
A Narrow Escape from Tragedy
The incident occurred during roof over-cladding work. The worker was installing metal sheets over an existing asbestos cement roof.
While working he accidently stepped onto a fragile rooflight. The surface gave way immediately, plunging him through the ceiling. He narrowly missed a machine operator working on the floor below.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene. Firefighters eventually rescued the worker after he landed on sharp machinery. Remarkably, he sustained only relatively minor injuries despite the horrific fall.
Investigation Reveals Major Failures
The HSE investigation uncovered several critical safety gaps. Specifically the principal contractor A.T. Lee Properties Limited, failed to plan the work properly.
Furthermore, neither company used effective measures to to control roofing risks. They also failed to provide the correct safety equipment for the job.
Tip: HSE has guidance for those planning work at height and how it can be carried out safely, including the preventative measures required is available. Introduction to working at height safely – HSE.
Further guidance is available for those undertaking the role of a Principal Contractor – Principal contractors: roles and responsibilities – HSE.
Subcontractor LJH Property Limited also failed to supervise the site. Their risk assessment was both unsuitable and insufficient for the task. Consequently, these oversights out every worker on that roof in danger.
Legal and Financial Penalty
Both firms pleaded guilty to breaching the health and Safety at work act. A.T. Lee Properties Limited was fined £47, 783 and ordered to pay £2,386 in costs.
LJH Property Limited, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Act. The company was fined £47,818 and ordered to pay £2,518 in costs.
Directors Neil Cryer and Luke Hudson also pleaded guilty. Both men received two-year conditional charges, This case serves as a stern warning to the construction industry. Safety planning must always come before profit.
Safety Aide can assist your business regarding Health and Safety, including Risk Assessments, please get in touch on 08000 806 801or email: info@safetyaide.com