Will electrical dangers encourage improvement in health and safety process?
September 3rd 13:31 Health and Safety
A number of businesses operating in the UK could be inspired to consult a facilities management expert in order to improve their health and safety processes following an incident in Aberdeen.
Joiner Gary Forbes was working for building firm Graeme W Cheyne when his boiler suit was set on fire.
Aberdeen Sheriff Court was told that the worker had attempted to remove a redundant electricity supply, which turned out to be live and connected to a 415 volt cable.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that the cable had twisted causing a short circuit, which resulted in a small explosion.
The company was fined £9,000 and order to pay Mr Forbes £4,000 after pleading guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Etc Act 1974.
HSE inspector Liz Standen commented: "It's lucky Mr Forbes was not electrocuted or more seriously hurt when the 415 volt cable blew up in his face in what was an entirely avoidable incident.
"[The firm] should have checked that all redundant electrical services on the property had been proven to be dead by a competent person before working on or near them."
