Will pipework firm's fine inspire health and safety improvements at UK companies?
October 13th 15:26 Health and Safety
An Essex-based pipework manufacturer has been fined £1,000 and ordered to pay £750 in costs for failing to purchase compulsory insurance to protect its workers.
The incident could inspire a number of UK firms to seek the assistance of a facilities management provider in order to improve their health and safety records.
Ductwork Environmental Services was visited by an inspector from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) last year but failed when asked to produce a current Employers' Liability Compulsory Insurance (ELCI) certificate.
The firm admitted five breaches of Section 1(1) of the Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969, for failing to hold ELCI.
David King, an inspector with the HSE, said: "Failure to have such insurance could leave any employee who has an accident, or suffers ill health because of work unable to obtain compensation for their suffering, which potentially leaves employees doubly vulnerable.
"This case should serve as a warning to all employers about how seriously HSE takes this issue."
