Concrete Pumping Company Fined After Worker Injured
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has prosecuted and fined a concrete pumping company after an employee was injured whilst at work on a construction site on Colwyn Bay promenade.
Llandudno Magistrates’ Court heard how the worker trapped his foot in the hopper of a concrete pump. As he was cleaning out a pump, the worker removed the interlocking safety grille, sat on the hopper and attempted to move some of the remaining concrete residue with his feet. The court heard that as he did so, the paddles started to move due to the safety interlock failing. The worker’s left foot was trapped by the paddles – the result of which was partial amputation.
After pleading guilty to breaching Regulation 5(1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations, Reilly Concrete Pumping, of Old Premier Stone Yard, Station Road, Sutton, St Helens was fined £8,000. The firm was also ordered to pay total costs of £1,746.
Chris Wilcox, Health & Safety inspector said after the hearing:
“This tragic accident has left the employee suffering life changing injury. Employers are legally required to ensure that work equipment is maintained in a safe condition for use, which in this case was the safety interlock on the hopper grille.”
Accident at Work – Expert Advice
If you have been injured in the workplace and you would like expert advice on this type of case, contact Hampson Hughes Solicitors today on 0800 888 6888 or email
Source: Health & Safety Executive
