HSE Inspector Criticises Safety Measures

A contractor has been fined £25,000 after a man fell through the roof of a DIY superstore in Wigan and later died in hospital.

The Health and Safety Executive prosecuted CRN Contracts for failing to follow proper safety procedures.
 
The company admitted two charges under health and safety legislation and was also ordered to pay costs of £14,086 at Manchester Crown Court.

David Battisson, 49, from CRN Contracts in Birkenhead (formerly Concrete Repairs NW) was working on the roof of The Range store when he fell 10 metres to the floor through a PVC light. He was taken to hospital but later died. The court was told that Mr Battisson and a colleague were applying anti-corrosion paint to roof bolts when the incident happened on May 27, 2005.

HSE inspector Warren Pennington said: "It's shocking that basic health and safety procedures weren't followed.

"CRN Contracts did not provide adequate supervision. It should have used boards to cover the fragile roof lights, and protected the area around the perimeter of the roof. The company also failed to cordon off the floor under the section of roof it was working on to protect the public from the work."

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David Urpeth, a lawyer at law firm Irwin Mitchell said: “I welcome the fine imposed following this tragic fatal accident.

“Falls from height remain a major source of serious and fatal injuries following a work accident.

“Sadly, in this case, it appears that there were numerous faults leading to the tragic consequences.

“This case demonstrates the importance of ensuring a safe system of work when people are expected to work at height.”

If you have lost a loved one due to an accident at work, our serious injury claims solicitors could help you claim compensation to help get the answers you deserve. For more information visit our fatal accident claims or fall from height claims page.