RW Christopher Crane Hire Ltd has been prosecuted by HSE after an unrelated investigation identified issues with risk assessments and systems of work and the availability of suitable fall arrest or restraint equipment.
Inspectors also found there was no training or instruction given to those working at height and the firm lacked basic procedures and policies covering such work.
The failings came to light after an incident in Cardiff on 1 October 2012 when, during stowing of a mobile crane jib, the jib fell and struck a workman causing injuries to his back and ribs.
Cardiff Magistrates’ Court heard (10 September) that there was no evidence to link the company’s failings to the incident.
RW Christopher Crane Hire Ltd, of Village Farm Road, Pyle, Bridgend, was fined £6,000 and ordered to pay £1,904 in costs after pleading guilty to breaching Section 2(2) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
After the hearing, HSE inspector Steve Richardson, said:
“Falls from height account for over half of all fatal incidents in the construction industry.
Work at height on cranes is recognised by the industry as being high risk and must be carefully planned and properly managed by trained and competent people with the correct equipment.”
Source: HSE
Lighthouse Comments: When ever I write these blogs I am always conscious that I do not repeat myself. However I have to repeat myself. Work at height is the biggest cause of injury in the construction industry. Work at height needs to be planned and pre thought out. Risks should not be taken while working at height.
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