Worker paralysed in lift plunge

An electrical firm has been fined £120,000 after an employee fell eight metres from a scissor lift. The worker, who does not want to be named, was left paralysed after suffering severe spinal injuries in the incident at the Manor Royal Industrial Park, Crawley, West Sussex, in January 2007. Skanska Rashleigh Weatherfoil Ltd admitted safety failings at Lewes Crown Court following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive. The court was told that the Hertfordshire-based company had been subcontracted to design and build the mechanical and electrical systems in a number of new buildings. The employee, from Hartlepool, was working in the lift tying cables into overhead trays when they collapsed, knocking him out of the lift. The HSE told the court that Skanska Rashleigh Weatherfoil Ltd had failed to ensure the safety of its employees while carrying out the installation of the cable tray systems. Skanska Rashleigh Weatherfoil Ltd admitted breaching section 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. It was also ordered to pay full costs of £81,927. IBB Solicitors has built a reputation for quality of service in pursuing compensation in cases involving accident, illness or death, including accidents at work. If you would like advice on personal injury issues, contact a member of IBB’s Personal Injury team: call us on 08456 381381 or email pi@ibblaw.co.uk.