Construction firm fined after worker fell from barn roof
Regulators have fined a construction company after a worker falls from the roof of a partially constructed barn in Shropshire.
The company appointed the man to complete the installation of roof sheets onto a barn that was under construction.
On 2 September 2023, he stood on a recently installed roof sheet. Attempting to put the next one in place, he fell to the ground below. Therefore, his fall resulted in significant injuries, including fractures to his ribs and skull.
Investigation reveals failures to Plan, Prevent and Protect
An investigation finds failure to properly plan the work. In addition, measures were not in place to prevent or protect against falls from height. Furthermore, the director was directly involved in the work but allowed it to be carried out in an unsafe manner.
Tip: Working at height remains one of the leading causes of workplace injury and death. HSE has detailed guidance on working safely at height.
The Work at Height Regulations require all work at height to be properly planned, appropriately supervised, and as a result carried out safely.
Dewi Williams Limited pleaded guilty to breaches of the Work at Height Regulations and was therefore fined £15,000 with additional costs of £2,000.
Dewi Williams pleaded guilty to the same breaches of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. He was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £1,000 in costs.
HSE Inspector said: “This case emphasises the importance of properly assessing the risks associated with all work at height activities.
“Therefore, employers should implement suitable control measures to minimise the risk of workers falling and, as a result suffering injuries.
“Proper planning and the provision of suitable equipment would have prevented this incident.”
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