A Ryton factory worker was seriously injured when 1.8 tonnes of metal sheets fell on him. The incident led to a significant fine for the employer due to safety violations.
Ryton: A worker at Aliweld Ltd was seriously injured when 1.8 tonnes of metal sheets fell on him. The incident happened on August 2, 2023.
The 58-year-old welder was trying to remove a clamp when stacks of aluminium sheets fell. He managed to escape but suffered severe injuries, including a ruptured pancreas and lacerated liver.
After the accident, he spent two weeks in intensive care and three weeks in the hospital. He also contracted pneumonia and sepsis during his stay.
Aliweld Ltd was fined over £16,000 for not following safety regulations. They had stored the metal sheets incorrectly on an A-frame instead of flat on the ground.
The Health and Safety Executive found that the company failed to assess risks properly. They also noted that the worker had not received adequate training for safe storage practices.
Aliweld’s director expressed deep regret over the incident. The company has since changed its procedures to ensure sheets are stored flat to prevent future accidents.
The court emphasized that their role was to address criminal wrongdoing, not to award compensation. Aliweld was fined £16,666 and ordered to pay additional costs.
