Metal recycler fined for negligence
A worker at one of the UK's leading metal recyclers in the UK had his jaw shattered by the locking mechanism of the waste container on the vehicle he was driving
Heavy goods driver had his jaw broken in several places and lost three teeth while attempting to open the rear door of the RO-RO (Roll-on Roll-off) container he was driving at Bedfordshire.
The injury happened as he removed the locating pin from the handle holding the rear door of the container shut. The handle sprung out, striking the goods driver in the face
He received 47 stitches and needed his jaw to be wired. He was unable to work for two months or eat solid food after the incident.
A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found the company had failed to ensure safety and found three similar incidents had occurred at the company's premises between 2002 and 2008, all involving workers being struck by container doors or container door handles.
After a two day trial, the firm was found guilty by magistrates and fined £15,000 with £21,718.05 costs.
Updated on 9/7/2011