Case 'Highlights Importance Of Training'

An incident which saw a worker seriously injured while using a cross-cut saw should be used by firms as an example as to why training is so important, a workplace injury lawyer has suggested.

Machine Hire Ltd of Burnham-on-Crouch was fined £12,500 over the case, which saw 28-year-old furniture assembler Daniel Gaskin cut through most of his left arm while slicing up wooden off-cuts in March 2010.

A subsequent investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that the employee was not given sufficient training on the equipment, machine guards and their proper use. It was also found that the saw itself should not have been used for training.

David Urpeth, national head of workplace injuries at Irwin Mitchell, said: “Perhaps the most notable aspect of this incident is that the HSE’s findings suggest the case, like many my team deals with every year, could have been prevented through the use of the correct guidance and training.

“Businesses simply cannot afford to pay little regard to the issue of training and this terrible incident should act as a stark reminder as to why it is so important.

“Supervision and training play a key role in raising awareness of how much of a priority health and safety is in the workplace, so I hope all firms can learn lessons from this and improve their processes where necessary.”

If you or a loved one has suffered due to an accident at work, our personal injury solicitors could help you make a No Win No Fee compensation claim. Visit our Workplace Accident Claims page for more information.