HSE urges action to protect workforce

The UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is urging action by employers to ensure the protection of staff members.

As a consequence of an accident in 2006, which resulted in an employee losing four of his fingers, the HSE is calling upon employers to ensure that equipment is regularly maintained and inspected to ensure staff safety.

During the accident, the victim also lost a portion of his palm.

"This was an entirely avoidable accident which resulted in a man losing four fingers," said David Butter, an inspector with the HSE, an organisation funded by the Department for Work and Pensions.

"Injuries from poorly-maintained equipment remain a significant and regular problem nationwide and companies must ensure that equipment is regularly inspected and maintained."

During a hearing, the victim's employer was found to have breached Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

A fine of £19,750, excluding costs, was also imposed.

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