Company fined for breaching safety regulations

An inspector for the the Health and Safety Executive declared that it would take measures against companies that failed to adhere to industry safety standards. Waste and recycling companies, operating in Essex and elsewhere, were described as having one of the worst accident rates of any industry. She made the statements after the results of a hearing where such a company was fined for breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 which resulted in an injury at a waste recycling centre.

The worker was delivering a load to The Recycling Centre in Totternhoe when the incident occurred. A crane used for moving metal loads struck the door of the worker’s vehicle causing extensive damage to his hand and arm. Safety measures had already been implemented at another subsidiary of the parent company in order to reduce the risks involved in allowing pedestrians and machinery to operate in the same area.

The injured worker required physical therapy after undergoing surgery and skin grafts following the accident. Several months after the injury he was still unable to grasp objects or use the thumb on his left hand. The inspector said that the accident could have been avoided if the safety measures had been implemented. The metal recycling company was fined £12,000 after pleading guilty at Luton Magistrates Court and was ordered to pay approximately £2,000 in additional costs and charges.

The consequences of an accident may not be limited to the injury itself and can be far reaching for the victim and for his family. In addition to the medical expenses for treatment and rehabilitation, the loss of earnings incurred by the injured party while being unable to work may cause severe financial difficulties and emotional distress. A solicitor may be able to offer the necessary legal assistance to ensure a client receives fair compensation.