The employee of Inflite Engineering Services and an agency worker were working either side of the tail using mobile elevated work platforms at Stanstead Airport on 10 June 2015, Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court heard.
But, another employee closed the wrong circuit breaker, inadvertently opening the plane’s airbrake, which knocked over both platforms.
One employee, a 62-year-old man, suffered three fractures to his pelvis, a broken back, three broken ribs, a fractured elbow and a punctured right lung. The second man, 60, suffered a broken wrist and chipped a bone on his spine.
A Health & Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that no suitable risk assessment was in place and there was a lack of effective monitoring.
HSE Inspector Tania van Rixtel said: “Both of these men suffered shocking injuries after falling from height, which could easily have been a double fatality.
“Our investigation found the incident could have been avoided had adequate monitoring been taking place. Aircraft maintenance companies are reminded that not all risks are covered by the Aircraft Maintenance Manual and additional measures need to be introduced.”
Inflite Engineering Limited, based a Stansted Airport, pleaded guilty to breaches under Sections 2 and 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. It was fined £160,000 and ordered to pay costs of £5,492.90.
Aircraft engineering firm fined £160,000
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An aircraft engineering firm has been fined £160,000 after two men fell around 15 feet and suffered broken bones while carrying out checks at the tail of an aeroplane.
