One of the UK’s leading firearms distributors has been fined £800,000 after a worker suffered burns while disposing of pyrotechnic waste at a manufacturing facility in Lincolnshire. GMK Limited was prosecuted following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). [press.hse.gov.uk], [hsmsearch.com]
The incident happened on 10 January 2023 at the company’s site in Faldingworth. A 36-year-old worker was disposing of waste pyrotechnic material when it unexpectedly ignited after coming into contact with a hot metal tray, causing burns to the worker’s hands, face and legs. [press.hse.gov.uk], [hse-network.com]
The HSE found there was no suitable risk assessment, no safe system of work, and that the activity was being carried out in an unlicensed part of the building. Investigators also identified that the worker had not been provided with suitable personal protective equipment (PPE), which could have prevented or significantly reduced the severity of the injuries. [press.hse.gov.uk], [hsmsearch.com]
The investigation revealed that although the company had an approved disposal method for pyrotechnic waste, staff had instead been using an unofficial method inside the production building for a number of years without adequate controls or oversight. The company was also found to be in breach of its explosives licence. [press.hse.gov.uk], [portsmouth.co.uk]
GMK Limited, based in Fareham, Hampshire, pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety and explosives regulations. In addition to the fine, the company was ordered to pay £10,306 in costs. [hse-network.com], [hsmsearch.com]
