HSE Investigation Highlights Failings

A company in Cardiff has been fined after a worker suffered major burns in an accident at work while employed on an electrical maintenance project.

Celsa Manufacturing UK Ltd has been fined £80,000 and ordered to pay costs after 51-year-old Henry Truszkowski suffered a 33,000-volt shock after coming into contact with live electrical conductors in July 2008.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive revealed that the employer had failed to ensure necessary precautions were taken to prevent the re-energising of conductors.

David Urpeth, national head of workplace injuries at Irwin Mitchell, said: “We deal with a number of claims every year in which employees are forced to pursue a compensation claim following injuries sustained in a work accident in which they were injured as a result of their employer’s negligence.

“This case highlights the devastating, long-term impact that accidents at work can have on those involved, particularly as the victim hurt in this case is yet to return to work over two years after the incident.

“Companies must always ensure they follow the guidelines which are in place to prevent people from coming to harm and provide workers with the necessary protective equipment.”