Unnecessary injuries caused to a confined space worker

A UK water system manufacturer has been fined and charged after a contracted worker fell over 3.5 metres down a confined space causing substantial head and arm injuries.

The worker was undertaking welding work on the top of a water treatment vessel without efficient safety measures. Sadly the ladder was insufficiently secured, which during the 3.5 metre drop from the top caused him to be; unconscious, have sustained bruising to the brain and breakages to his wrist.

An inquest by Healthy and Safety Executive (HSE), found the company had inadequately prepared, planned and safeguarded the work.  The HSE believe ‘the company should have identified the need to train and instruct their staff in the safe way to work’.

At a trail at Manchester Magistrates Court, the company pleaded guilty to breaches of the Work at Height Regulations 2005, Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. In total, the company was fined £30,000 and required to pay costs of £9,000.

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Original article appeared on HSE (Health and Safety Executive Website)