Could glass maker's fine inspire increased use of facilities management health and safety processes?
September 28th 13:59 Health and Safety
UK businesses working in a variety of industries could be inspired to invest in facilities management health and safety processes following an incident in the Black Country.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recently carried out an unannounced investigation at a glass making businesses in the area, which resulted in a fine for the firm.
During the inspection, HSE found that Staffordshire Crystal's premises were contaminated by lead.
The firm pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 5 of the Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 and Regulation 25(2)(b) of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
In addition to a £3,600 fine the company was ordered by Stourbridge and Halesowen Magistrates to pay costs of £7,000.
HSE inspector Jenny Skeldon commented: "This was a proactive prosecution following a routine visit to the premises. Lead exposure is a recognised cause of occupational ill health and this requires adequate control measures to either prevent or control exposure.
"Good personal hygiene such as hand-washing before eating or drinking is also very important in controlling exposure."
