Care Home Company Fined Following Death of Resident

A care home company has been fined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) following the death of an elderly resident at a home in Surrey.

Two employees of European Healthcare Group Plc were providing personal care to an 89 year old female resident at Old Wall Cottage Nursing Home when the incident occurred on 30 August 2011.

The lady was seriously scalded and later died of her injuries in hospital.

HSE Investigation & Sentencing

Following an investigation by the HSE, it was found that taps on both the baths and showers at the home had not been fixed so that the temperature of the water was limited to a suitable degree for use. Furthermore it was found that the company’s health and safety policies and procedures were poor and that the firm failed to communicate any control measures to staff.

After pleading guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, European Healthcare Group Plc, of Windsor Street, Uxbridge, Middlesex, was fined £100,000. The company was also ordered to pay costs of £50,000.

HSE inspector Michelle Canning said after the hearing:

“This tragic and preventable incident highlights the responsibility that all care providers have to protect the safety of people in their care. People who live in residential care and nursing homes are amongst some of the most vulnerable in our society and rely on others to provide a safe environment for them to live in.

“All healthcare premises have a legal duty to control the risks of scalding injuries from bathing or showering and there is guidance that is well established and simple to implement.”

Expert Advice

If you or someone you know has been affected by a similar type of case, our expert team is on hand to offer free and friendly, no obligation advice. Call Hampson Hughes Solicitors today on 0800 888 6888 or email [email protected] for more information.

Source: Health & Safety Executive