Construction Industry Urged To Learn From Incident

By Rob Dixon

A public liability expert has called on construction firms to ensure they take all possible steps to protect the public while undertaking projects, after a scaffolder was fined over an incident in which a woman suffered head injuries.

The 61-year-old member of the public was walking underneath scaffolding erected by Thomas Hannen in January 2011 on the Isle of Bute when she hit her head on a horizontal pole, suffering head injuries and a fractured ankle as a result of her subsequent fall.

It was revealed in a court hearing that members of the public were not discouraged from using the pavement beneath the scaffolding area, while a council surveyor had also advised Mr Hannen to ensure people were safe when using the footpath.

No padding or warning tape was also wrapped around the horizontal pole to alert the public to its presence. Thomas Hannen was fined £1,670 and ordered to pay costs over safety failings in relation to the incident.

Irwin Mitchell acts for people who have suffered serious injuries as a result of accidents in public places, helping them to gain answers and justice over the ordeals they have endured.

Sally Rissbrook, a lawyer with expertise in the area, said: “Construction firms and contractors have a duty to ensure the health and safety of their employees and the general public is their top priority.

“Sadly, this case is similar to many in which we act – when people have suffered serious injuries due to the negligence or safety failings of others.

“Lessons need to be learned from incidents like this if improvements in safety are to be seen in the future. Incidents of this nature simply should not be repeated and we hope that all construction firms take note of this case, as well as the consequences that all involved faced.”

Read more about Irwin Mitchell’s expertise related to Accidents in Public Places claims