A titanium supplier has been fined after an employee sustained multiple fractures to his leg whilst operating a metal cutting band saw machine.
A Court heard that an employee of the Company was seriously injured by a falling titanium plate. Almost 1.5 tonnes of titanium plate fell from the bed of a metal cutting band saw machine trapping his leg underneath. The sheets being cut were significantly larger than the machine bed.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found the company had failed to suitably and sufficiently assess the risk of material falling from the machine bed and failed to put in measures to control the risk. An extension to the machine bed or stanchions with back stops would have prevented the material from falling from the machine bed.
The Company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. They were fined £200,000 and ordered to pay costs of £7,293.15.
The employee and victim said “This has been the worst couple of years of my life. I feel I have been dealt a bad hand. I have come through it, but I have a long way to go. My recovery isn’t going to be a quick fix and I think everyone knows this. My friends, family and the company have supported me.”
HSE inspector added: “A simple, cost-effective solution could have prevented this horrendous injury.”
Information from HSE Website