A County Durham engineering company has been fined after failing to protect workers from deadly asbestos found in its factory.

Blue Diamond Engineering Limited, of Shildon Industrial Estate, Shildon, was told of the presence of the material during a survey carried out at the site in 2006.

However, the company did not put in place a documented Asbestos Management Plan that would have controlled the risk of exposing employees and visitors, even though work carried out could have disturbed the hazardous material.

Blue Diamond Engineering Limited admitted charges under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Darlington Magistrates’ Court ordered the firm to pay fines totalling £11,000, plus £1,610 in costs.

“This prosecution should serve as a warning to companies to properly manage the risks of asbestos exposure,” said Health and Safety Executive inspector Michael Kingston after the hearing.

“Asbestos kills around 5,000 workers each year. This is more than the number killed on UK roads. Asbestos can be present within any premises built or refurbished before the year 2000.

“Whenever asbestos-containing materials are found to be present, companies have a legal duty to document and implement an Asbestos Management Plan, which includes measures to adequately control the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.”

Macks Solicitors in Middlesbrough, Redcar and Darlington have a wealth of experience in the field of asbestos compensation claims. If you or a close relative have become ill due to asbestos exposure, fill out our claim form to speak to one of our expert solicitors.