17.08.2010
Fatal Work Accident In Scotland
17/08/2010
A quarrying company's failure to train and adequately supervise staff led to the death of an experienced mobile plant fitter.
Arthur Jamieson, who was trying to fix a transmission leak on a five-and-a-half tonne digger, was crushed by the machine when it rolled off a ramp because its back wheels had not been secured properly.
The 58-year-old, who lived in Keith, Banffshire, suffocated as one of the digger wheels compressed his chest.
The Health and Safety Executive prosecuted Leiths Scotland Ltd, the Aberdeen-based firm for which Mr Jamieson worked.
Admitting that it presided over safety failures which killed the man, Leiths was handed a £96,000 fine at Elgin Sheriff Court on Monday August 9.
The accident happened in Parkmore Quarry, Dufftown, Aberlour, in November 2008.
Norman Buchanan, a health and safety inspector, said after the case ended: "This tragic incident should have been avoided.
"Although Arthur Jamieson was undoubtedly an experienced mobile plant fitter, he had not previously carried out this particular task for this firm.
"He should have received adequate information, training and supervision from his employers, which Leiths did not provide."
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