Firm prosecuted for unsafe scaffolding

A scaffolding firm, Totalscaff (GB) Ltd, has been fined £20,000 and ordered to pay £10,000 in costs following a prosecution brought by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).

The prosecution came after a HSE inspector visited a site where building repairs and external work were being carried out. The inspector found that scaffolding erected by Totalscaff (GB) Ltd had not been adequately tied meaning that it was unstable. The worker responsible for undertaking safety checks of scaffolding before use was also fined £2500 plus costs for failing to ensure that the scaffold was properly tied despite having received previous advice regarding this.

Speaking after the prosecution, HSE Inspector Melvyn Stancliffe said:

“Scaffold collapses can have serious consequences and tying the scaffold – or something similar – is essential for stability and ensuring it does not collapse while being erected or being used. Its importance cannot and should not be overlooked.

“HSE and the scaffolding industry have worked together to produce guidance to help scaffolding contractors ensure their scaffolding is safe. It is easy to follow. By not following it, people’s lives were put at risk unnecessarily.

“HSE will take firm action against individuals and contractors who ignore their health and safety obligations. It is essential that contractors and contract managers equip themselves with the necessary information and guidance material and apply it each and every time a scaffold is built.”

Claiming compensation following a fall from height at work

In this case the HSE brought proceedings against the company for breaching health and safety regulations despite the fact that no-one was injured. However, falls from height, including falls from scaffolds, are common causes of serious injuries to workers and in many cases are fatal. Workers injured in a fall from height at work may be entitled to make a claim for personal injury compensation, loss of earnings and any other financial losses.

If you have been injured in a fall at work contact us for free, no obligation advice regarding your potential claim.

Added 26.9.11

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