A homes developer has received a fine for exposing its workers to danger after failing to heed warnings given by a HSE Inspector
Select Quality Homes Ltd was issued a fine after ignoring a Prohibition Notice handed to them by a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Inspector. The notice related to concerns surrounding workers falling from height.
The case, which was brought before Manchester City Magistrates’ Court, revealed that during an unannounced HSE inspection in April 2015 safety failings were flagged. This included the edge protection on the scaffolding, which was absent or inadequate in several places. Due to the dangers this posed and the risk of workers falling from height the inspector issued a Prohibition Notice.
However, the court was told that when the HSE returned to the site the scaffolding was still found to be inadequate and unsafe. Therefore charges were levelled against the firm as it should have managed and monitored the site correctly to keep workers safe.
Failure to act
Select Quality Homes Ltd of Middleton Road, Chadderton, Oldham pleaded guilty to breaches of Regulation 6(3) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and Section 22 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. A £6,600 fine was issued and the firm was ordered to pay costs of £646.70.
Speaking after the hearing HSE Inspector David Argument said: “This could have been avoided if Select Quality Homes Ltd had taken simple steps to prevent people from falling, such as guard rails, mid rails and toe-boards.
“Prohibition Notices are only served when an Inspector is concerned there is a risk of serious injury.
“Failure to comply with these notices is a criminal offence and HSE will take robust action when dutyholders do not take action to control serious risk”.
