June 27, 2016

Man loses fingers after health and safety failings

A metal packaging firm based in London has been fined following an incident in which a worker trapped his hand in a power press and lost two fingers.

Westminster Magistrates Court heard how a member of staff at Roberts Metal Packaging Ltd suffered the horrendous injuries to his left hand, after it was trapped beneath the punch on the press.

A subsequent investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that the company had not taken steps to prevent staff from accessing this dangerous part of the machinery.

Roberts Metal Packaging Limited, of Nathan Way, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 11(1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. The firm was fined £7,000 and also ordered to pay costs of £3,520.

Employers need to be aware of, and familiar with, the range and extent of health and safety regulation that may affect their business. Failure to deal with health and safety obligations can lead to substantial fines (as in this case), damaging adverse publicity and restrictions on their ability to submit tenders for work with public authorities.

At Royds we can advise on a wide range of matters relating to health and safety legislation. For further advice please contact Kevin James or visit. We also have a wealth of experience representing clients in respect of accidents in the workplace. For more information please email James Millar Craig.

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