Routine Inspection Revealed Safety Failings
An Ammanford, Wales construction company has been fined after a routine inspection at one of its sites revealed a number of dangerous failings.
T Richard Jones (Betws) Ltd. was operating a site at St Michael’s Church, Manselton, Swansea when Health and Safety Executive (HSE)inspectors visited as part of a routine inspection.
Site Manager on Holiday, Poor Washing Facilities, No Protective Gear
Swansea Magistrates’ Court heard that on arrival, HSE’s inspectors were informed that the site manager was on holiday. Construction sites need a site manager to ensure that risks to health and safety are adequately controlled. Washing facilities were found to be inadequate and workers were found not to be wearing protective glasses or gloves, which was of particular concern as lime mortar was being used. Use of lime mortar creates a serious risk to health and can lead to the loss of sight, skin burns or dermatitis.
In addition, there were two employees working at height without measures in place to prevent injury caused by a fall.
A subsequent investigation by the HSE concluded the company had failed to ensure the health, safety and welfare at work of its employees.
Pleaded Guilty, Paid Fine
T Richard Jones (Betws) Ltd. of Foundry Road, Ammanford, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2 (1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. The company was fined £2,000 and ordered to pay costs of £3,658.
According to Welsh safety officials, over the last five years, on average, 61 people have died every year from injuries they receive as a result of construction work, and many more have been injured.”
Author Michael B. Stack, CPA, Director of Operations, Amaxx Risk Solutions, Inc. is an expert in employer communication systems and part of the Amaxx team helping companies reduce their workers compensation costs by 20% to 50%. He is a writer, speaker, and website publisher. www.reduceyourworkerscomp.com. Contact: mstack@reduceyourworkerscomp.com.
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