Freeclaim Solicitors News
Firms Prosecuted Over Fall From Height
Mon 29th Mar 10 - 16:13
Two decorating firms have been prosecuted for health and safety breaches by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after a worker was left brain damaged.
The self employed painter fell from a ladder whilst working on the refurbishment of student accommodation, although no witnesses could confirm this and the 58 year old worker cannot recall any details of the accident at work because of the head injuries he suffered.
They found that the companies had allowed work to be carried out without adequate equipment and without the required level of planning or supervision.
HSE Inspector David Stewart commented, "The ladder Trevor Dawson used, which we believe may have caused or contributed to his fall, was simply not suitable for the work he was doing. It was a domestic step ladder which should not have been allowed on the site....a tower scaffold would have been much more appropriate. "
"Falls from height remain the single most common cause of fatality and serious injury in the construction industry. The law is quite clear and HSE provides freely-available guidance on how work at height should be managed."
Before instructing a worker to use a ladder, the employer must look at the risks posed by using a ladder and must satisfy themselves that the there is no other more suitable equipment which may be used.
If you have suffered an injury due to a fall from a ladder or other accident at work, we can help you claim your rightful compensation. Remember there is nothing to pay and you keep 100% compensation. Call our work accident compensation solicitors on 0800 24 34 09 or use our online accident claims form and we'll call you straight back.