Two of the largest construction contractors in the UK have been hit with fines and costs of more than £1.5 millon EACH after they were prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Liverpool Crown Court heard how a construction worker was injured in 2015 when his foot became trapped in a large rotating screw, leading to the amputation of three toes. The construction companies involved, Costain Ltd and Galliford Try Limited were carrying out an upgrade on a water treatment works in Cheshire.
HSE’s investigation concluded that the companies had failed to properly plan and manage the work carried out and were found guilty of breaching Section 3 (1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Both companies have been fined £1,400,000 each with a total of £101,046.20 costs.
Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector David Argument said: “This injury was easily preventable. The commissioning work should have been properly planned and managed.
“Employers should make sure they properly assess and apply effective control measures to minimise the risk posed by dangerous parts of machinery.”
The worker involved would have a considerable damages claim for the terrible injuries he suffered, as well as his other related losses and expenses.
There is substantial legislation covering all aspects of working practice that all employers in the UK must adhere to. If there is a breach on the part of your employer and you were injured as a result, then you are entitled to pursue a claim for compensation.
Get in touch with Work Claims Bureau today for a free consultation.
