In a shocking incident that took place on 19th May 2020, an employee of Safran Seats GB Limited, a leading manufacturer of aircraft seats, suffered severe injuries when he fell through a roof at a site in South Wales. This article delves into the details of the incident, its causes, and the subsequent consequences faced by the company.
The Incident and Injuries
Kevin Lewis, a 62-year-old employee of Safran Seats GB Limited, was involved in the process of vacating the company’s premises located in Llantarnam Industrial Park, Cwmbran. While dismantling and removing a spraying booth, Mr Lewis accidentally fell over seven feet through the booth’s roof. The impact of the fall resulted in multiple broken bones, including eight fractured ribs, a fractured collar bone, and a fractured skull. Furthermore, he suffered from unconsciousness and a brain bleed.
Lack of Planning and Training
An investigation conducted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed critical failures in the planning and execution of the work at height. The inadequate planning resulted in the absence of suitable safety equipment and the lack of proper instruction and training for the workers involved in the task.
Disturbing Statistics and HSE Guidance
The incident involving Kevin Lewis sheds light on a larger issue concerning workplace safety. According to HSE data from 2017 to 2022, a tragic total of 174 workers in Great Britain lost their lives due to falls at work. This accounts for a quarter of all fatal accidents in the workplace during that period. The HSE offers comprehensive guidance on work at height to prevent such incidents from occurring.
Legal Consequences and Fine
Safran Seats GB Limited was held accountable for the accident and faced legal proceedings. On June 14, 2023, the company pleaded guilty at Cwmbran Magistrates Court to breaching section 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. As a result, the company was fined a substantial amount of £660,000. Additionally, Safran Seats GB Limited was ordered to pay costs amounting to £13,472.
Importance of Safety Measures
HSE Inspector Seren Linton emphasized the responsibility of those in control of any work to prioritize safety. Employers and supervisors must develop safe methods of working and provide adequate information, instruction, and training to their employees. By following these basic practices, incidents like the one suffered by Kevin Lewis can be entirely prevented.
Conclusion
The incident involving the employee at Safran Seats GB Limited serves as a stark reminder of the importance of workplace safety. Proper planning, use of suitable safety equipment, and comprehensive training are essential to prevent accidents and protect employees from harm. It is crucial for companies to prioritize the safety of their workforce to avoid tragic incidents like the one described in this article.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
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- What led to the incident at Safran Seats GB Limited?
The incident occurred due to inadequate planning of work at height, leading to the absence of suitable safety equipment and insufficient instruction and training for the employees involved. - How common are falls at work in Great Britain?
According to HSE data from 2017 to 2022, falls at work have resulted in the tragic deaths of 174 workers, accounting for a quarter of all fatal accidents in the workplace during that period. - What were the injuries sustained by the employee?
Kevin Lewis, the employee involved in the incident, suffered multiple broken bones, including eight fractured ribs, a fractured collarbone, and a fractured skull. He also experienced unconsciousness and a brain bleed. - What legal consequences did Safran Seats GB Limited face?
Safran Seats GB Limited pleaded guilty to breaching section 33(1)(a) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. As a result, they were fined £660,000 by the Cwmbran Magistrates Court. Additionally, the company was ordered to pay costs amounting to £13,472. - What measures can be taken to prevent such incidents? To prevent accidents like the one at Safran Seats GB Limited, it is crucial for employers to prioritize safety. This includes proper planning of work at height, ensuring the use of suitable safety equipment, and providing comprehensive instruction and training to employees.
- What led to the incident at Safran Seats GB Limited?
