The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has prosecuted a fruit shop owner who failed to take out insurance that would have covered any employees of his who might have had an accident while at work, or developed a work-related illness or condition.

Northumberland-based fruit shop owner Ian Gray – trading as I Gray Fruiterers in Station Road, Ashington – was found not to hold employers’ liability insurance, which is compulsory by law and covers employees for any injuries sustained while at work, or conditions or illnesses resulting from their work. A third party had reported the matter to the HSE, who decided to take action.

On Monday (22/03/10) at Belington Magistrates’ Court, Ian Gray was found guilty of four breaches of the Employers’ Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969. Mr Gray was fined £2,100 and ordered to pay £1,850.80 costs.

After the hearing, HSE Inspector Andrea Robbins said that employers’ liability insurance is a legal requirement for all employers in Great Britain.

‘As well as being a legal requirement, the insurance offers important protection for employers if an employee is injured or suffers from disease as a result of their work.

‘The failure of employers to insure is seen as a serious matter and HSE will continue to refer appropriate cases to the magistrates for their consideration,’ Ms Robbins added.

The HSE advises that, while public liability insurance is generally voluntary, employers’ liability insurance is compulsory and enables an employer to meet any costs relating to employees’ injuries or illness, whether caused on or off site. Ms Robbins said that there was ‘no excuse’ for employers not having the insurance.

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