Somerset firm fined after employee fall

Posted 21/07/2011

A company from Somerset may have required legal services after an employee suffered a workplace fall.

Nick Clarke was carrying out repair work on Heathfield Barn in Bridgewater, which is owned by UK Storage Company, in October last year when the accident happened.

He fell from a trestle work platform and broke his back, arm and ribs after tumbling three metres.

Taunton Magistrates Court heard that although some safety measures had been put in place, they were inadequate.

Steve Frain from the Health and Safety Executive said: “Employers need to ensure there is adequate supervision and fall protection in place while renovation activity of this nature is undertaken.”

Due to the extent of his injuries, it is unlikely that Mr Clarke will be able to work in the construction industry again.

UK Storage Company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 4(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and was fined £5,000.

This comes just after agricultural contractor Ashton Farms was fined for failing to ensure proper safety measures were in place while carrying out work at Manor Farm Grittleton in Chippenham.

If you’ve suffered an injury as the result of an accident at work, the personal injury team at Ashtons Legal will be happy to advise you on whether you have a claim.