Working at height can be extremely dangerous

A principal inspector from the Health and Safety has stated that working at height can be 'extremely dangerous'.

Steve Banfield made the comment after a Westgate on Sea-based company was order to pay a fine of £3,000 and costs of £1,597 after it failed to ensure the safety of an employee working on a fragile roof.

The 18-year-old worker went on to fall and break his right leg in two places.

Discussing the incident, Mr Banfield suggested that precautions such as personal protective equipment should have been used to ensure the worker was safe.

He said: 'This case highlights the serious consequences that can occur when health and safety law is not adhered to, and demonstrates how working at height can be extremely dangerous if the correct procedures are not followed.'

Earlier this month, the HSE held a seminar in Scotland to highlight health and safety issues to construction firms in the country.

The event at Almondvale football stadium in Livingston was designed for directors, managers and sub-contractors.

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