The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a warning to demolition companies, after a contractor fractured his spine in a fall.

 
In April 2007, Gediminas Vasiliauskas was working for Philpott Demolition and Recycling of Norwich, removing old roof tiles and timber from a disused aircraft hangar at the former RAF Watton site in Norfolk.

Mr Vasiliauskas fell and fractured his spine and had to have a metal disk inserted into his back. He was unable to work for a year and during that time he also lost his sense of taste and smell.

 
On Thursday (22/10/09) at Norwich Magistrates’ Court, Tim Philpott – trading as Philpott Demolition and Recycling, of Long Stratton, Norwich – pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 between 21 March, 2007 and 9 May, 2007. Mr Philpott was fined £7,500.

Following the hearing, HSE inspector Nicola Surrey said that Mr Vasiliauskas was lucky to have survived the accident – and that it could have been avoided if Mr Philpott, as his employer, ‘had taken precautions to ensure his employees’ safety’.

‘Working at height is one of the most dangerous things employees can do,’ said Ms Surrey. ‘This case highlights the need for companies to do everything possible to minimise the risks employees face when working at height.

‘HSE provides plenty of advice and guidance for employers on how to keep their workers safe while working at height,’ she added.

© 5r1 Limited 2009