Fine after worker has finger crushed by 40 tonne press

Date:

18 March 2010

Release No:

HSE-E-60

A Suffolk company has been fined after an employee's finger had to be amputated after it was crushed by a 40 tonne power press.

Magistrates sitting at Bury St Edmunds heard press operator Peter McCormick was using a metalworking power press at solenoid manufacturer H.E. & B.S. Benson Ltd in November 2008.

He leaned into the machine to reach for a component when his right index finger was crushed between the two halves of the press tool. Mr McCormick (61), from Newmarket, had to have his finger amputated between the first and second joints.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found the machine did not have all its safety guards fitted, which would have prevented access to the moving parts.

The company, based at Laureate Industrial Estate, Newmarket was fined £8,000 and ordered to pay £4,356 in costs after it admitted breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

The prosecution was brought by the HSE, which is now calling on all employers to make ensure they operate safe working environments.

Speaking after the case, HSE Inspector Glyn Davies said:

"This case illustrates the personal consequences suffered by employees when workplace risks are not properly managed.

"Power presses are some of the most dangerous machines used in industry, with a history of serious incidents.

"A man has suffered a painful and debilitating injury because a relatively simple process of maintaining correct safety guarding was not followed.

"Employers who operate such machinery are required to identify the risks resulting from its use and establish how work can be carried out safely. They should then develop and implement safe systems of work, providing training and supervision for workers."

Notes to editors

1. HSE is Britain's national regulator for workplace safety and health. It aims to reduce injuries and illness in the workplace.
2. 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."
3. Advice and guidance for employers can be found on the HSE website: www.hse.gov.uk
4. Solenoids are cylindrical wire coils that act as magnets when an electrical current passes through them. They are used in items like cash drawers, vending machines and safety locks.

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Issued on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive by COI News & PR East