A company director has received a Community Service Order and two contractors fined a total of £80,000 after a worker fell from a scaffold tower. The incident occurred during the refurbishment of a Reading pub and sadly resulted in life changing injuries for the worker.
Reading Magistrates’ Court heard how on 2 December 2016 the worker suffered a serious head injury after falling from a tower scaffold onto the street below. His injuries have caused long term brain and memory problems and have resulted in him suffering from seizures and losing the ability to care for himself.
An investigation by HSE found that the principal contractor failed to control safety and planning on site. They also found that the sub-contractor carried out unsafe working practices.
At court, the principal contractor pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3 (1) of The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. As a result, the company has been fined £40,000 and ordered to pay costs of £3184.00.
The director of the company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3 (1) of The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and has received a Community Service Order for 100 hours.
The subcontractor pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 4 (1) of The Work at Height Regulations 2005. The company has been fined £40,000 and ordered to pay costs of £3184.00.
HSE Comment
“Falls from height remain one of the most common causes of work-related injuries in this country and the risks associated with working at height are well known.
“The case highlights the importance of following industry guidance and in order to design and erect scaffolding in a safe manner, which does not raise risk to members of the public and workers using the scaffold.”
HSE inspector Ian Whittles
Don’t put your workers or your team at risk. Contact us today to make sure your height safety and access solutions are safe and compliant.
