£232,000 fine for workmens' four storey lift shaft fall

£232,000 in fines and costs have been shared across three companies after two men fell down a four storey lift shaft due to the erection of an inadequate and unsafe platform.

Both men were working in the lift shaft at Exeter University as part of a project to build new student accomodation. Ricki Slocombe (35) broke both of his legs and has been confined to a wheelchair for months. Matthew Blackmore (29) broke his back. Both are lucky to be alive after falling from such a height.

HSE inspector Simon Chilcott commented:

"This was a terrifying incident for the two men which could easily have led to their deaths. As it was, they suffered severe injuries, which were life-changing in the case of Mr Slocombe.

Contractors and employers must make sure they have taken all reasonable measures to provide a safe environment for workers to work in and that any temporary structures are secure."

The 3 companies involved are Cowlin Construction Ltd., Prestopian Ltd., and Somerset Carpenters Ltd. With Cowlin having the largest portion of the fines and costs to pay.

Safety precautions must always be adhered to when working at height, and here at C&D we provide extensive training in that area. If you'd like to discuss your training needs or the courses we offer, please get in touch.

Source: HSE