Bridgend-based RW Christopher Crane Hire Ltd was prosecuted by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) after an employee was injured in October 2012 when the jib of a mobile crane swung round and struck him. A colleague was attempting to stow it away at the time.
The ensuing HSE investigation identified issues with risk assessments and systems of work, as well as the availability of suitable fall arrest or restraint equipment.
Inspectors also found there was no training or instruction given to workers required to operate at height, and the company was lacking basic procedures and policies covering such work.
RW Christopher Crane Hire Ltd, of Village Farm Road, Pyle, Bridgend, was fined 拢6,000 and ordered to pay 拢1,904 in costs after pleading guilty to breaching Section 2(2) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
After the hearing, HSE inspector Steve Richardson said: 鈥淔alls from height account for over half of all fatal incidents in the construction industry. Work at height on cranes is recognised by the industry as being high risk and must be carefully planned and properly managed by trained and competent people with the correct equipment.鈥�
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