Gas fitter fine highlights safety compliance importance
February 4th 15:53 Health and Safety
The importance British firms should place on health and safety compliance has been highlighted after more than 700 workers were placed in danger by an unregistered gas fitter.
Following a prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), self-employed gas fitter Jamie Loxston, of Norton Canon, Herefordshire was fined £1,250 for breaching sections of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and the Gas Safety Regulations 1998.
Effective facilities management may have assisted in the avoidance of any incidents as a series of gas and carbon monoxide leaks were found after Mr Loxston carried out works at a caravan site in Herefordshire.
HSE inspector Luke Messenger said: "Badly fitted gas appliances can be highly dangerous, if not fatal.
"There is the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning from the fumes, as well as the potential for fire and explosion if leaking gas is exposed to a naked flame or a spark. The activities of Mr Loxston were a danger to more than 700 seasonal workers and it was extremely fortunate no lives were lost."
Mr Loxston was also ordered to pay £550 costs by Hereford Magistrates.
