On 14 December 2015, an agency worker at ERIKS Industrial Services Limited, a logistics company, received crush injuries whilst unchaining a vehicle ramp from a delivery lorry.

A subsequent Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that the company had failed to adopt appropriate systems of work. There was also insufficient training for workers in relation to the safe unloading of vehicles. The company had also failed to properly brief visiting drivers about how to perform this activity.

ERIKS Industrial Services Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and was fined £373,000 and ordered to pay prosecution costs of £8,333 at Southend Magistrates' Court.

George Green’s Regulatory and Licensing Partner, James Lowe stated “It is vitally important for organisations with duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to ensure that they have a robust health and safety management system in place and that steps are taken to ensure that all health and safety obligations are met. Companies that do not comply place themselves at risk of receiving substantial fines in the event that they are convicted of health and safety offences”.

If you should have any questions about your legal obligations in relation to Health and Safety in the workplace and need a specialist solicitor, call James Lowe, our Regulatory and Licensing Partner on 07833 240 400 for advice and assistance.