Scaffolding firm fined following worker fatality

A scaffolding firm in Glasgow has recently been fined after a worker fell from a height of nearly 6 metres in a tragic accident back in 2011.

The accident was caused by a scaffold deck which was in a poor state of repair. According to the HSE the mobile access tower showed signs of brown rot, decay and was in poor condition. The 53 year old was carrying out roof work at a two storey, domestic property in South Lanarkshire when he walked on the scaffolding deck which broke causing his fall. He suffered serious head injuries and sadly died from his injuries the next day.

The company responsible has been fined £40,000 after pleading guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

This incident clearly shows the importance of inspecting equipment and ensuring equipment is suitable, well maintained and in a good state of repair.

Simian Risk offers an independent inspection service along with advice and consultancy. We work to support scaffolding businesses and improve health and safety standards to help prevent incidents such as this one. We can assist with scheduled or ad-hoc inspections and provide a third party, expert opinion. Give us a call on 0345 602 2418 for more information.