Employee's loss as Supermarket cuts back on cost's
A mother of three has made a personal injury claim against her employer due to sustaining severe injuries, and being left with a permanent scar that measured almost half a meter in length.
The woman, who had worked as an employee for a well known food company for almost 10 years, stated, “My colleagues and I are all aware that the company cuts back on costs of food trolleys by refurbishing major competitors faulty and disposed of equipment...Its common knowledge...although we think it’s wrong how they do it, we have no say.”
It was also explained that prior to this accident numerous customers and employees had previously been injured due to the sharp defective pieces of metal that regularly stuck out of these trolleys as they were rarely sanded down sufficiently.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prosecuted the company, following the incident.
HSE's investigation found the company should have taken measures to ensure that the trolleys were recycled to a safe standard even if it meant it was slightly more costly.
The company pleaded guilty and was fined £5,700 and ordered to pay £2,750 in costs.
Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector said:
"This was an entirely preventable incident that would not have happened if the company had complied with the law. This employee is now left with a permanent scar and finds it difficult to walk let alone work."”
The solicitor acting on behalf of the claimant stated: “ The way in which some companies run their business is appalling, by cutting back on costs and using faulty equipment they are creating a dangerous and unsafe environment for thousands of people, this has to stop!”
Updated on 10/4/2011