Crisp Company Fined for Accident at Work Incident
A crisps and snacks manufacturer based in Northamptonshire has been fined for an accident at work incident in which an employee lost the tips of three fingers.
Accident at Work Incident
At the time of the incident, an agency worker for Tayto Group Limited was attempting to remove a blockage from a machine when his hand came into contact with shears. Three fingers on the worker’s right hand were severed below the first knuckle.
Health & Safety Executive Investigation
Northampton Crown Court heard how an investigation by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) found that the guard on the machine had not been secured properly. Furthermore, it was found that Tayto Group Limited had not put a formal monitoring system in place on the machine involved in the accident at work incident. Such a system would have ensured that all guards were in place and secure before the machine started.
Sentencing & Fines
After pleading guilty to breaching Regulation 5 of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), Tayto Group Limited, of Princewood Road, Earlstrees Industrial Estate, Corby, Northamptonshire, was fined £330,000. The firm was also ordered to pay costs of £11,752.23.
After the hearing, HSE Inspector Michelle Morrison said:
“This man suffered a life-changing injury in what was an entirely preventable incident. Employers must have adequate and robust systems to ensure that guards used to prevent access to dangerous parts of machinery are in place and secure before machinery is put into use.”
Accident at Work – Expert Advice
Accident at work compensation may be available if you have been injured in an accident at work that was not your fault. Your accident at work compensation claim could also include any instance of illness linked to your past or present working conditions. More information can be found via our ‘Accidents at Work’ page.
To begin your accident at work claim, contact us today. Remember, we offer you a FREE no obligation-consultation. Call 0800 888 6 888 or email .
Source: Health & Safety Executive
