04/09/2003

HSENI prosecute construction firms

The Health and Safety Executive of Northern Ireland (HSENI) has successfully prosecuted two firms for breaches of health and safety procedures.

The first case, held at Belfast Magistrates Court last month, involved the prosecution of McCombe Brothers of Antrim. The case arose from an incident during construction work at the Dominican College in Belfast last January.

During the building of a perimeter brick wall along an unsupported edge of a pre-cast concrete floor slab, the slab tilted and resulted in both the wall and the two workers falling four metres to the ground. The company was fined £2,750 and ordered to pay costs.

The second case involved R J Armstrong Surfacing of Lisburn. Lisburn Magistrates Court heard how a tipper body of a lorry came into contact with overhead power lines and two workers received electric shocks. The two workers escaped death as a result of the incident, which occurred on Drumaknockan Lane in Hillsborough. The firm was fined £1,500 and ordered to pay costs.

Commenting on the cases, Ken Logan, Head of the HSENI’s Construction Group said: “These cases highlight the need for good health and safety management, to eliminate incidents of this nature - they are entirely preventable. Those who are prepared to breach health and safety legislation must also accept the consequences. This not only extends to companies but individuals will also be held accountable where appropriate."

(MB)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

28 April 2004
Young men’s mental health project wins top award
A project aimed at raising awareness of young men’s mental health has won the top award in a regional competition.
17 May 2002
Health and safety conference opens in Armagh
At the opening of a major health and safety conference in Armagh, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Sir Reg Empey, urged everyone to play their part in improving health and safety at work. Sir Reg said: “Employers, who as the creators of risk, naturally have the greatest responsibility for managing and controlling risk.
24 March 2003
NI companies recognised for health and safety work
Two Northern Irish companies were in Cardiff last week to pick up national awards for their efforts as part of the European Week of Safety and Health 2002. The initiative was designed to highlight problems associated with stress in the workplace.
29 September 2021
£8.7m Boost For Mental Health Services
Charitable and community mental health services are set to benefit from a new £8.7 million support grant, Health Minister Robin Swann has announced.
06 March 2002
Assembly health committee publishes cancer services report
The Northern Ireland Assembly Health, Social Services and Public Safety Committee have published their report into cancer services in Northern Ireland.