Two Workers Hurt In Staircase Incident

Paisley building firm Ossian Construction has been fined following an incident which saw two employees suffer major physical and emotional trauma in an accident at work.

The pair fell into the basement of Priory House Hotel in Largs when the stone staircase they were demolishing in the building collapsed under their feet.

One man suffered fractured ribs and vertebrae, as well as a punctured lung and crush injuries to a foot and finger, in the incident - which took place in September 2007 – while the other sustained cuts and bruises.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has revealed that Ossian Construction, of Glasgow Road, Paisley, pleaded guilty to breaching regulations related to failing to ensure a safe work system was in place.

Commenting on the case, David Urpeth, who specialises in workplace injury cases for Irwin Mitchell, said: “This incident highlights just why so much importance is placed on assessing risks within places of work.

“Both employees involved were hurt, with one particularly suffering injuries which will continue to have a major impact on his life for a long time to come.

“Incidents like this are easily prevented by putting the right plans and processes in place while preparing to carry out work. Demolition projects are potentially dangerous, but the correct measures can go some way to ensuring that no one suffers in a similar manner again.”

If you have suffered an injury as a result of an accident on a construction site, our accident at work solicitors could help you to claim compensation. See our Construction Accident Compensation page for more information.