Prosecution: Local Authority Fined After School Worker Loses Finger

A recent prosecution has highlighted the importance for ensuring suitable workplace health and safety training has been carried out before machinery is used.

Suitable training ensures that employees are knowledgeable about the safe operation of machinery, understand potential hazards, and are equipped to handle emergencies, significantly reduces the risk of accidents and enhancing overall workplace safety.

The Case

In June 2022, a technician at The Forest School in Horsham lost his right index finger when it was cut off by a circular bench saw. The technician had been using the saw to prepare materials for a DT lesson when he felt a pain in his finger. He turned the machine off immediately, and looked down to see his finger lying on the bench.

A subsequent HSE investigation found West Sussex County Council, the local authority in charge of the school, failed to ensure the technician was trained to use the bench circular saw. Whilst he had used the saw many times but had not been trained on how to use it safely.

West Sussex County Council pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 9 of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, and in July 2024 they were fined £16,000, ordered to pay £4,294.60 in costs and a victim surcharge of £190.

Speaking after the investigation, HSE inspector Russell Beckett said:

“Workers must be trained properly when using high risk woodworking such as bench circular saws. This incident could have been prevented had West Sussex County Council provided Mr Soday with proper training.”

How Can We Help in Workplace Health and Safety Training?

This recent prosecution serves as a stark reminder to employers that thorough training is not just a legal obligation, but a crucial measure in safeguarding the health and safety of workers and preventing injuries.

Are you confident that you are providing suitable training for the activities you are carrying out?

We can provide support, advice and training to help you ensure your workers go home safely at the end of each day.

Get in touch today to start a conversation.