Chemical firm prosecuted after worker loses finger

A global chemicals manufacturer has been prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after a worker who was wearing safety gloves suffered serious injuries to his hand while at work.

Ineos Enterprises has been punished for ignoring basic safety guidelines after a 58-year-old employee's hand was pulled into machinery.

The worker lost his ring finger and suffered damage to his middle and third digits in the incident as well.

Runcirn Magistrates' Court heard how Ineos ignored basic safety tips which state that those using lathes must not be wearing gloves at any time.

The company introduced a policy last year making protective gloves mandatory for employees on site.

Mhairi Duffy, investigating inspector at the HSE, said: "New guidance was introduced nearly six years ago on not wearing gloves while using metalworking machines, but Ineos failed to keep up to date with the latest health and safety advice."

The British Safety Council recently launched its Changing the Habits of a Lifetime campaign, which is designed to highlight the importance of safety gloves while tackling certain tasks.
 

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