Welsh jam and preserve manufacturer, The Clarendon Food Company Limited was prosecuted after a worker fell off a ladder on its site in Pwllheli, sustaining multiple fractures, including his right arm, left leg, cheekbone, and backbone.
On 6 April 2020, the employee was installing a security camera on the outside of the company building using an unsecured ladder. Llandudno Magistrates’ court heard how the ladder slipped, causing the worker to fall approximately 15ft to injury.
This installation work was not properly or safely planned out, nor was there a discussion of an alternative option to complete this task. Plus, no training had been provided to any workers, including the injured man, in relation to duties that involve height.
The company, therefore, pleaded guilty to breaching section 2 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and were fined £40,000. They also ordered to pay costs of £5,344.30.
Jeremy Sirrell, a Director at Palmers who deals with prosecutions for health and safety matters, said: “The failure to ensure that the equipment was suitable for use has led to this avoidable incident.
“If you are concerned about your businesses’ safety obligations, then it is important that you seek specialist advice at the earliest convenience.”
For help and guidance on all aspects of Health and Safety Law, including putting in place strategies to protect your workforce, please contact our expert team today.
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