Construction firms given HSE fine
November 11th 08:31 Health and Safety
The importance of effective facilities management in the construction sector has been highlighted by the Health and Safety Executive's (HSE's) decision to fine two firms carrying out work at Heathrow Airport.
Laing O'Rourke Infrastructure of Kent and SGB Services of Leatherhead have been ordered to pay a total of £105,000 following an accident at the site in 2005.
One man died and another was left with serious injuries when they were struck by a concrete slab while building a multi-storey car park that serves the new Terminal 5.
The incident occurred despite defective equipment being previously recalled and HSE inspector Karen Morris said the accident "could have been prevented if both companies had had more robust systems in place".
She added that it is "vital" components critical to safety are inspected before use to ensure they are not damaged.
In related news, the HSE is currently working alongside Leeds City council to help reduce work-related accidents at businesses in the city.
