Personal Injury Solicitor Luton

A 20-year-old production operative had part of his left thumb severed in an accident at work whilst using a circular saw to cut insulation foam.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), prosecuting, told Spalding Magistrates that the employee was using a table mounted circular saw when his hand was caught in the blade.

HSE told the court it had become standard practice by employees to remove the guard as the height adjustment mechanism on the saw was broken. In addition, the table saw was not big enough to adequately support the foam being cut, therefore it was necessary for him to support the foam with his hands rather than using a push-stick.

The employee was off work for seven weeks but has since returned to his job.

After today's hearing, HSE the inspector said:

"The company neglected its legal duty to take reasonably practicable steps to ensure the safety of their employees.

"The injured man's employers failed to provide equipment which would allow the job to be done safely and, as a result, a young employee suffered serious injury in a completely preventable incident."

The Lincolnshire company, pleaded guilty to breaching Section (2)1 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £6,700 and ordered to pay full costs of £4,117.

If you or someone you know would like to find out if they can claim injury compensation, call us today on 0800 612 7445 to arrange a free consultation with a specialist personal injury solicitor or click here to start your claim.

Source - Health and Safety Executive