Safety Signs News

Electrician injured after fall on fishing boat

12th May 2010 | Health and Safety Signs

A fishing boat operator from North Yorkshire has been fined after an electrician suffered serious injuries following a fall from height.

The 53-year-old was attempting to fit new bilge alarms on the 'Our Julia' vessel at Scarborough harbour on July 16th 2009 when he fell between the decks.

He broke his back in three places, fractured his skull in two places and sustained nerve damage to the left side of his face as a result of the incident.

Scarborough Magistrates' Court heard that the company which owns the boat, also called Our Julia, failed to provide the contractor with a suitable ladder during the job.

After pleading guilty to breaching Regulation 8(e) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005, the firm was fined £7,000 and ordered to pay £2,028 in costs.

"Too many lives are shattered as a result of falls from height at work, and I hope today's prosecution serves to remind all employers that proper precautions must be taken at all times," said Health and Safety Executive inspector Paul Newton.

Meanwhile, Calor Gas was fined £27,500 last week after a major liquefied petroleum gas leak at its terminal in Canvey Island, Essex.

Posted by Jason Nicholls ADNFCR-2754-ID-19773575-ADNFCR