A Hull company has been fined after serious safety failings led to a delivery worker suffering life-changing injuries when a 1.2-tonne crate fell from a forklift truck during an unloading operation. The incident happened in December 2020 when a delivery containing an electron microscope arrived at a site operated by Smith & Nephew Medical Ltd. [hsmsearch.com]
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found the unloading task had not been properly planned, assessed, supervised or controlled. The suitability of the forklift truck was not adequately considered, and the load was lifted in an unsafe manner, causing the crate to fall onto the worker. [hsmsearch.com]
Smith & Nephew Medical Ltd was found guilty of breaching health and safety law and was fined £230,000, along with being ordered to pay £111,000 in costs. HSE said the case highlights the importance of properly planning and managing lifting operations and ensuring clear procedures are in place for deliveries and third-party contractors. [hsmsearch.com]
Key Message: Even routine deliveries can become life-changing incidents when lifting operations are not adequately assessed, planned and supervised. Safe systems of work must never be overlooked. [hsmsearch.com]
