Expert Calls On Firms To Protect Employees

A workplace injury expert has called on businesses to not underestimate the importance of using adequate safety guards on machinery.

David Urpeth of Irwin Mitchell said that it is vital for organisations to not cut corners when it comes to risk assessments or the use of guards, as doing so could place the wellbeing of staff in jeopardy.

He made the comment after fabric manufacturer E-Leather Limited was fined by the Health and Safety Executive in relation to an incident which saw the arm of an agency worker crushed.

Robert Dunn of Ringwood was working on a fabric winding machine at the end of last year when his left arm was drawn into a roll of material and badly broken. Cartilage in his left knee was also ripped due to the sudden movement.

Discussing the case, workplace injury lawyer Urpeth said: “An investigation into this case revealed that the guards on the machinery were inadequate, which highlights the key role that they can play in protecting workers.

“Too many cases related to workplace injuries highlight the same problems in relation to a lack of guarding. It is time that all businesses recognise this and do all they can to put staff welfare higher up their agenda.”

If you or a loved one has suffered due to an accident at work, our personal injury lawyers could help you make a No Win No Fee compensation claim. See our Accident & Injury At Work Compensation page for more information.