The company was fined £800,000 after an employee suffered severe burns following a large explosion.
An employee of international paint limited of Stonegate lane suffered a serious burn following an explosion in their factory.
The explosion occurred on 4th August 2020, with significant damage to the building.
How did it happen?
The employee was carrying out an activity of making paint inside a large mixing vessel. The paint making involves the use of flammable liquids.
While carrying out the activity, emptying the resin pellets from a large bulk bag into the vessel generated an electrostatic spark. The spark ignited the flammable vapour in the large mixing vessel giving rise to a large explosion.
Health and safety executive report concerning the large explosion incidence
During their investigation, Health and safety executive (HSE) UK said the company failed to put sufficient measures to control the risk.
HSE inspector Paul Wilson said, “This incident should serve as an important reminder to industry that fire and explosion can have devastating consequences.
“It is critical that employers fully assess the risk of fire and explosion including the risk from static discharges and put the necessary control measures in place.”
Fines from the explosion incidence.
In November 2022, at the Newcastle upon Tyne Magistrates’ Court, International paints limited of Stoney gate lane Gateshead pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and was fined £800,000 with £14,032 costs.
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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.
