Health and Safety Executive
Falls from height are the biggest cause of death and injury in the workplace, and where possible, employers should try and avoid the need for working at height.
Bolton, UK (PRWEB UK) 17 December 2013
Truro Magistrates’ Court heard that Jacob Wingett, aged 28, from Treburley, fell around a metre while fitting a number plate to the top of a tractor cab. As a consequence, he suffered multiple injuries, including skull fractures. (1)
Mr Wingett’s employers at Moore’s B&B Agricultural Sales Ltd have pleaded guilty, and they have been fined a total of £7,000, plus a further £8,142 in costs.
According to the Health and Safety Executive, Mr Wingett was standing at the back of the tractor, while trying to fit a number plate, when he lost his balance and fell. He suffered one broken, and one shattered wrist, two broken arms, and multiple skull fractures.
As reported by the press release, Mr Wingett underwent surgery to have pins and plates in both arms, leaving him unable to work for over a month.
Commenting on the news, Adriano D’Ambrosio, Executive at Asons Solicitors, said that:
“Falls from height are the biggest cause of death and injury in the workplace, and where possible, employers should try and avoid the need for working at height.”
“If working at height is unavoidable, employers must ensure that workers are provided with the necessary safety equipment. This incident would have been entirely preventable, had the correct health and safety procedures been in place. Mr Wingett was not provided with any equipment to prevent the fall. Luckily, the injuries he endured were not fatal.”
“Here at Asons, we strongly believe that no one should be hurt because of negligence from an employer. Those who have experienced suffered under similar working conditions should not hesitate to make a health and safety claim.”
HSE Inspector Gareth Cottle, speaking after the hearing, said:
“Mr Wingett’s serious injuries could have been avoided with some simple measures including planning the work properly, providing proper equipment, such as a platform to work on and adequate training and supervision.
“Falls from height are the biggest cause of workplace deaths and it’s crucial that employers make sure work is properly planned, appropriately supervised and that sufficient measures are put in place to protect staff from the risks.
“There is no excuse for employers failing to safeguard workers who have to work at height.” (1)
Asons Solicitors suggest that if someone would like to learn more about the consequences of construction accidents, or if they would like to better understand the Personal Injury Claim process, that such information is available at http://www.asons.co.uk, or via an expert helpline on 01204 521 133.
(1) Health and Safety Executive, 06/12/2013 press.hse.gov.uk/2013/cornish-tractor-sales-firm-fined-fro-workers-injuries/
(2) Truro Magistrates’ Court, 06/12/2013 - Case Number T20120713
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About Asons Solicitors:
Asons Solicitors is a Bolton-based law practice that specialises in personal injury and industrial disease claims. Founded by brothers Imran Akram and Kamran Akram, Asons Solicitors has developed to become a young and dynamic law firm that delivers practical solutions to clients in times of difficulty. Their continued focus on their staff has seen them awarded with the Investors in People “Gold Award”; which is reflected in the professional and personable approach they take in working with clients. They strive to grow and to develop, and their supportiveness and attention to detail ensures that their clients use them time and again.
For further information contact:
Email: info(at)asons(dot)co(dot)uk
Website: http://www.asons.co.uk