Explosion highlights importance of facilities management
January 18th 14:37 Health and Safety
Effective facilities management has been highlighted as a must have even for market leaders after a global defence firm was fined £80,000.
BAE systems was handed the fine after an explosion in 2005 killed a female employee at its Lancashire site.
Following the death of Lynda Wilkins, the Health and Safety executive (HSE) prosecuted BAE Systems Land Systems (Munitions and Ordnance).
The firm was also ordered to pay £118,000 costs after pleading guilty to breaching section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
Mrs Wilkins was working alone with an explosive substance called lead styphnate.
HSE inspector Colin Hutchinson said: "This was a tragic incident and my sympathies go to Lynda Wilkins' family.
"Although we have been unable to conclude what caused the explosion, it is clear that BAE Systems' failings contributed to her death.
"The substance she was using is known to be extremely sensitive and must be handled carefully. BAE Systems failed to ensure the process was properly supervised and monitored."
