A Suffolk company has been fined after a worker sustained serious injuries to their finger, leading to amputation, while working on a 40-tonne metalworking power press.

In November 2008, press operator Peter McCormick, 61, from Newmarket, was using the metalworking power press at solenoid manufacturer H.E. & B.S. Benson Ltd.

Mr McCormick leaned into the machine to reach for a component, when his right index finger was trapped between the two halves of the press tool, causing a severe crush injury. Mr McCormick had to have his finger amputated between the first and second joints.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found the machine did not have all its safety guards fitted, which would have prevented access to the moving parts.

On Thursday, March 18, 2010 at Bury St Edmunds Magistrates’ Court, H.E. & B.S. Benson Ltd – based at the Laureate Industrial Estate in Newmarket – admitted breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. The company was fined £8,000 and ordered to pay £4,356 costs.

After the hearing, HSE inspector Glyn Davies said the case illustrated the personal consequences suffered by employees when workplace risks were not properly managed.

‘Power presses are some of the most dangerous machines used in industry, with a history of serious incidents,’ said Mr Davies.

‘A man has suffered a painful and debilitating injury because a relatively simple process of maintaining correct safety guarding was not followed.

‘Employers who operate such machinery are required to identify the risks resulting from its use and establish how work can be carried out safely.

‘They should then develop and implement safe systems of work, providing training and supervision for workers.’

The HSE is calling on all employers to make ensure they operate safe working environments.

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