On 8 July 2017, Eddie Ely, was working with a group of colleagues to remove a blockage on a conveyor when he was drawn into the conveyor system. Guards had been removed from the machine, but the power had not been isolated.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that Forterra Building Products Ltd had failed to properly ensure that machines were always isolated from power, to be made safe, before guarding was removed from machinery. The company pleaded guilty and paid total fines of £200000, plus court fees, for breaching Sections 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc act 1974.
HSE inspector, Steven Boyd, said: “This case shows the devastating consequences of coming into contact with dangerous machinery. It is crucial that companies have a clear procedure for isolating machinery and they have appropriate supervision and monitoring to ensure it is adhered to.”
More about the legislation referred to in this case can be found at: www.legislation.gov.uk/
