Facilities Management

The store was also ordered to pay £6,500 costs at Nottingham Crown Court.

Nottingham City Council took out the prosecution against the company for failing to ensure the health and safety of its employees. The goods lift, used regularly by members of staff was deemed "seriously defective" and had not been serviced for 15 years.

A member of staff used the lift on May 24th 2008 when his leg became entangled between the lift shaft wall and the lift vehicle as it was moving between floors, resulting in his leg being seriously crushed.

Paramedics were initially lied to about how the injuries were sustained and the company failed to report the accident to the City Council Environmental Health Officer straight away – prompting the council to also prosecute for failing to report an accident. The company admitted the offences.

An Inspector from Nottingham City Council, said:

"This was a very serious matter where an employer's negligence led to serious injury, exacerbated by an attempt to cover it up. We didn't hesitate to prosecute in these circumstances and we are pleased with the sentence handed down by the court which appropriately reflects the gravity of the situation. We would remind all businesses that it is their responsibility to ensure the health and safety of their staff, including proper maintenance of their property."