On August 2021, A 55-year-old operator working a night shift with a manufacturing company called Alpha Solway Limited lost parts of his two fingers when his hand got caught in a facemask-producing machine.
What leads to the loss of fingers?
The Operator spotted a problem with the HX machine for facemask production. He attempted to solve the problem when the machine is running. And this led to his hand being caught by the HX machine ripping his little finger and ring finger. The Operator was hospitalised for three days.
The health and Safety Executive report
HSE found that the company failed to put suitable guarding in place for the machine. They also failed to prepare a risk assessment for the activity. The company did not conduct training on the safe use of the machine. The company also failed to monitor and supervise the machine’s operation.
Fines for the loss of fingers incidence
At Warrington Magistrates’ Court on 7 March 2023, Alpha Solway Limited, of Hangcliff Lane, Lerwick, Shetland, Scotland, pleaded guilty to breaching section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £66,000 and ordered to pay £5,440.70 in costs.
Read also:
- Health board fined £160,000 after employees diagnosed with Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome
- 5 Health Benefits of Regular Exercise for Men
- HSE publishes annual work-related ill-health and injury statistics for 2021/22
- Things you need to know about the BCSP Board of certified safety professionals
- Tips on writing a great minute during the safety and health meeting
Onyeka Emma is a QHSE Professional with more than 10 years of experience in occupational health and safety, which spans many industries such as construction, beverage, oil and gas, etc. He has many health and safety certifications, including NEBOSH IGC, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 Lead auditor certificate. A member of IOSH, ISPON, and Nigeria Red Cross Society. He is interested in business, entrepreneurship, Speaking, and motivating people to do better for themselves. He enjoys leisure with a good motivational book.
