HSE warning to sole traders after labourer killed by a falling steel joist

Date:

27 October 2009

Release No:

HSE/E/29

A London-based plumber has been fined following the death of a labourer in Essex.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) brought the case after Ajet Krasniqi, 24, died when he was hit on the head by a reinforced steel joist in Buckhurst Hill, Essex.

His employer, Leonard Gibson of Old Park Ridings, London, was today (Tuesday 27 October) fined £10,000 at Harlow Magistrates' Court. He was also ordered to pay £3,230 costs. Mr Gibson, a plumber and sole trader, had already pleaded guilty on 22 September 2009 to a breach of Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

Mr Krasniqi had been employed by Mr Gibson as a labourer to help with the complete refurbishment of a domestic property. On 24 October 2006, he was helping to lift a reinforced steel joist with four others when it fell and struck him on the head. Although Mr Krasniqi was taken to hospital he was pronounced dead on arrival.

HSE has now issued a firm warning to all sole traders who employ labourers, to do everything possible to minimise the risks when working with heavy materials.

HSE Inspector Nicola Surrey said: "This tragic incident could have been prevented if the employer had made sure his workers were not left exposed to unnecessary risks.

"There is plenty of advice and guidance available from the HSE to help people comply with the law and keep workers safe. However, for those who fall short of the law, the HSE will not hesitate to take action."

Notes to editors

1. 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."
2. More information about health and safety on construction sites can be found at Health and safety in the construction industry.
3. In London, between 2001/02 and 2007/08, 9 people in the construction industry died in reported incidents relating to being hit by a falling object. Fatal injuries to workers in the East of England by industry and kind of accident 2001/02 - 2007/08

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