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28/05/2002
Gilbert-Ash (NI) fined for health and safety breach
Construction company Gilbert-Ash (NI) Ltd have been fined for failing to maintain adequate health and safety measures following a serious accident during the construction of a retail unit at Donegal Place in Belfast.
The accident occurred on May 8 2001, when a forklift truck was driven by an employee of the company onto an area of metal decking which was unable to support its weight. The forklift truck and driver subsequently fell five metres to the floor below, resulting in the employee receiving serious injuries.
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) prosecuted the company. Appearing in Belfast Magistrates Court on May 21 2002, Gilbert-Ash (NI) Ltd admitted to "not maintaining a safe system of work" and the firm was fined £4,000 and ordered to pay £177 costs.
Ken Logan, Head of HSENI, commented: "This accident could easily have led to another tragic death. The dangers of working with forklift trucks are well-known in the construction industry and companies have a legal duty to ensure that vehicle operations on sites are properly planned and managed. This includes having the correct precautions in place and ensuring appropriate supervision.
He added: "HSENI will vigorously pursue companies who disregard their health and safety responsibilities and where appropriate, this may result in prosecution."
(CL)
The accident occurred on May 8 2001, when a forklift truck was driven by an employee of the company onto an area of metal decking which was unable to support its weight. The forklift truck and driver subsequently fell five metres to the floor below, resulting in the employee receiving serious injuries.
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) prosecuted the company. Appearing in Belfast Magistrates Court on May 21 2002, Gilbert-Ash (NI) Ltd admitted to "not maintaining a safe system of work" and the firm was fined £4,000 and ordered to pay £177 costs.
Ken Logan, Head of HSENI, commented: "This accident could easily have led to another tragic death. The dangers of working with forklift trucks are well-known in the construction industry and companies have a legal duty to ensure that vehicle operations on sites are properly planned and managed. This includes having the correct precautions in place and ensuring appropriate supervision.
He added: "HSENI will vigorously pursue companies who disregard their health and safety responsibilities and where appropriate, this may result in prosecution."
(CL)
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