A solar panel installation company has been fined after a worker fell and sustained life-changing injuries.
He had been installing solar panels on the roof of a house when he fell three metres on 4 July 2022. It is believed he had been carrying materials up a ladder when he fell.
He landed at the foot of the ladder and suffered a fractured skull, leading to a severe brain injury. He is now unable to walk or talk.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive found Everyone’s Energy UK Limited had failed to properly plan, manage, and monitor the work at height. The company had not provided adequate scaffolding around the roof and there was no appropriate means to raise the materials onto the roof.
Everyone’s Energy UK Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 4(1) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 . The company was fined £28,000 and ordered to pay £6,634.56 in costs at Magistrates’ Court in March 2024.
HSE guidance states that employers and self-employed contractors must assess the risks, take precautions and issue clear method statements for everyone who will work at height.
One of the most common causes of fatal injuries continues to be falling from height. In many cases where a person falls from height, safe access has not been provided. All operations requiring work at height require risk assessment and proper management of risks.
For more information, or to book a training course, feel free to get in contact: 01782 438813
Comments