A North East stone masonry company owner has been fined after failing to protect workers from the risk of serious illnesses including lung cancer, despite an earlier warning.
The dangers of potentially life-changing conditions such as lung cancer and silicosis from exposure to silica within the industry are well documented, but can be managed with proper safety procedures.
Thomas Bushby, the owner of JLD Stone, which makes stone walls, fireplaces and pillars at its factory in Tow Law, Bishop Auckland, was given safety advice by Health and Safety Executive inspectors.
Some workers were not given masks for jobs that put them at risk, while others had masks that were unsuitable because of their facial hair. Stone dust that should have been vacuumed was swept up instead.
In addition, there was no risk assessment for the use of jobs that required the use of vibrating tools, nor were lower-vibration tools that would have limited the effects utilised.
Two employees had been diagnosed with hand-arm vibration syndrome, in 2009 and 2014.
A Health and Safety Executive investigation discovered that from 2008 to 2014 there was no health surveillance of workers, which could have identified problems at an earlier stage.
Mr Bushby, of Castleside, Consett, pleaded guilty at Consett Magistrates’ Court to offences under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 and the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.
He was ordered to pay fines totalling £2,500, plus costs of £1,921.29.
“Serious, irreversible ill health or even death can result from exposure to silica, and hand-arm vibration syndrome is a permanent disabling condition,” Health and Safety Executive inspector Fiona McGarry said after the hearing.
“Employers need to take action to ensure they are providing adequate control to protect the health of employees.”
Has your health been affected by exposure to hazardous materials in the workplace? Macks Solicitors in Middlesbrough, Redcar and Darlington have a team of specialist lawyers who may be able to help recover compensation for you. Fill out our claim form to arrange an appointment.
