Health and Safety Failings: Foundry fined after worker’s clothes catch fire

Foundry fined after worker’s clothes catch fire

Key Facts

• A foundry has been fined after a worker suffered serious burns when his clothing caught fire.
• The HSE found the worker had not been provided with adequate training, work equipment or PPE.
• The foundry was fined £15,000 plus costs.

The Case

An HSE investigation was launched into the safety practices of a Batley based foundry after a worker was seriously injured when his clothing set alight.

The employee was carrying out work which involved the use of isopropanol and a paint-like solution. Whilst carrying out this task, the bucket containing his solution caught fire which then spread to his clothes. He suffered serious burns.

The subsequent HSE investigation found that the foundry had failed to provide the worker with adequate training, work equipment and PPE.

The case was heard at Bradford Crown Court where the foundry pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. They were fined £15,000 plus costs of £9000.

What the law states

Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 states

It shall be the duty of every employer to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all his employees.

What the HSE had to say

Speaking after the hearing, HSE Inspector John Boyle said:

‘A worker was left with serious injuries as a result of this incident. Had the company taken a number of simple measures prior to the work activity taking place – such as the provision of suitable work equipment, training and personal protective equipment – then it may well have been avoided.’

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