Mr Nikitas Coulson was removing asbestos from Sheffield College as part of preparation for its demolishment when he fell 3.5 metres from a roof to the ground below. Both Mr Coulson’s employer, Lilquest Asbestos Management, and the principal contractor for the project, JF Finnegan Ltd were prosecuted.
The court heard that immediately after the incident the remaining roof lights were boarded over, something that should be done before any work was allowed to be started on the roof. As a result of the fall Mr Coulson suffered a broken arm and required a plate be inserted into his arm.
Both of the companies accepted liability and pleaded guilty in the case. JF Finnegan was fined £20,179.90 including costs for their part and Lilquest were fined £5000 including costs.
“This was an obvious and known risk, and one that should have been dealt with before any work went ahead. Falls from height are the most common cause of fatal injuries in the workplace and are also responsible for many serious injuries.
“The control measures needed to avert these risks are cheap and simple and widely-known throughout the construction industry.” Said HSE Inspector Dave Bradley
Leave a comment