Electrical Contractor fined £40,000: case study
Posted on 2nd May 2024 at 09:24
A £40,000 fine was levied against an electrical contractor following a tragic incident where a worker sustained severe burns. The accident took place during cabling and jointing operations in new apartments, where two employees were working on the main switchboard. Nearby bus bars, concealed by a protective guard panel, carried live electricity. While performing their tasks, a nut slipped behind the guard panel, triggering an electrical flash that forcefully propelled one worker backward, resulting in significant burns to their arms and face.
An inquiry by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that the company overlooked the gap in the guard panel, which posed a risk of components like nuts and bolts making contact with the live bus bar. Furthermore, the absence of a permit-to-work (PTW) for tasks near live components, coupled with inadequate supervision, exacerbated the situation. The company admitted guilt to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. They were fined £40,000 and instructed to cover £20,000 in costs.
This unfortunate incident underscores the critical need for adherence to HSE regulations. Employers can fulfill their responsibilities by conducting thorough risk assessments, especially in electrical work, closely supervising tasks, and ensuring comprehensive employee training. Implementing PTW systems, which outline safety procedures beforehand, can further enhance worker safety.
For further guidance on workplace safety and risk management, feel free to reach out to us today.
Tagged as: Accident Investigation, Electrical Contractor Liabilty, Electrical Hazards, Electrical Safety Regulations, Employee Training, Health and Safety Basics, Occupational Health and Safety, Permit to Work, Risk Management, Workplace H&S
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