Plymouth City Council has been fined £200,000 after its failures led to some of its employees developing hand arm vibration syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome.
During 2017–2019, two council employees developed HAVS and a further four were diagnosed with CTS as a result of prolonged and uncontrolled exposure to hand arm vibration while working in the grass cutting team or when carrying out arboriculture activities.
A Health and Safety Executive investigation found that between 2005 and 2019, the council failed in its legal duty to comply with legislation, despite the fact that guidance for employers has been available since 2005.
HSE inspector Janet Hensey said: “The fine imposed on Plymouth City Council should underline to everyone carrying out similar activities that the courts, and HSE, take a failure to follow legislation seriously.
“We will not hesitate to take action against companies which do not do all that they can to keep people safe. Exposure to vibration is a recognised health risk with potentially disabling consequences.
“There has been relevant legislation regarding assessing and controlling exposure to vibration since 2005, this was a case of the organisation completely failing to identify the risk to employees when carrying out grass cutting and arboriculture activities.”
Plymouth City Council pleaded guilty of breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. It was fined £200,000 and ordered to pay £25,877 in costs.
Printed Copy:
Would you also like to receive CIR Magazine in print?
Data Use:
We will also send you our free daily email newsletters and other relevant communications, which you can opt out of at any time. Thank you.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE