Linmar Scaffolding Ltd Penalised for Unsecured Scaffolding
In a prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Linmar Scaffolding Ltd. was ordered to pay fine and costs by a court, after its scaffolding in Western Industrial Estate, Caerphilly gave way within 11 days of being built. The incident that took place in June 2006 did not result in any deaths or injuries, as there was no one in the vicinity when the scaffolding collapsed.
The HSE investigated the matter and concluded that the Cardiff-based company was responsible for the mishap, as they had failed to secure the scaffolding to the building. HSE construction Inspector Dean Baker said fastening scaffolding to a building is a must, but the company, which ironically is an expert at constructing Scaffoldings, did not do so in the present case.
Baker pointed out that the fall had not caused any harm to workers as it occurred 20 minutes before the shift was due for change. He added that had it not been for the timing of the collapse, a large number of workers could have been badly hurt and could have died as well.
The HSE has considered it important that this incident should serve as an example for other scaffolding companies and it prosecuted Linmar Scaffolding Ltd. for its failure to fulfil its safety obligations under regulation 8 (b) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005. The company appeared before the Abergavenny Magistrates’ Court in September this year and pleaded guilty. The court decreed the company to pay costs and fine amounting to 7,200 pounds.
Changes to parts of the Building Regulations have health and safety implications for organisations throughout
