Quarry worker trapped in machinery

Employers alerted to the dangers of failing to provide adequate protection for people after a worker tripped and became trapped in the head drum of a conveyor at a Northumberland quarry.

The HSE warning comes after North East Concrete Limited and North East Plant Sales, of High Street, Newburn, Newcastle were fined a total of £8,333 and ordered to pay costs of £5,558 (£2,779 each), at Alnwick Magistrates' Court on 1st June 2009. Both firms pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety regulations. The two companies were also each ordered to pay a £15 victim surcharge.

The incident occurred on 12 May 2008 at Calstron Quarry, Thropton, Rothbury. Michael Snaith, a quarry worker from Rothbury, tripped on a piece of metal at the top landing while checking the head drum area of the main incline conveyor. Mr Snaith fell into the belt area and his right arm was dragged into the belt mechanism up to his shoulder, where he became trapped.

HSE Inspector Bruno Porter said: "This is a case of having inadequate guarding on very dangerous plant and increasing the risk further with a trip hazard. Employers and operators of plant must ensure they monitor the condition of the plant to ensure all their plant is properly guarded. In quarries and other hard environments, the machines are powerful and unforgiving. The guarding and other safety arrangements must be checked regularly to make sure workers remain protected."

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