HSE International ISSUE 109 | Page 13

BSIF: BRITISH SAFETY INDUSTRY FEDERATION Introducing MANUFACTURER IN COURT OVER GUILLOTINE ACCIDENT Sharp Shield Technology Tornado’s unique ‘Sharp Shield’ technology provides robust reinforcement between thumb & forefinger. A Bristol based manufacturing company has been fined after an employee suffered crush injuries while using a guillotine. N ewport Magistrates’ Court heard how on 23 June 2016, Avon TSA Ltd employee Kyle Hurley was trimming lengths of foam material using a guillotine cutter at the company’s facility at the Blaenant Industrial Estate, Brynmawr. When he reached into the machine to clear some foam which was not feeding through correctly, his hand came into contact with the guillotine blade, resulting in amputation to the top of his right middle finger and tip of his index finger. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found the company failed to protect employees from dangerous parts of machinery and properly plan use of the guillotine. A viewing panel, which also acted as a fixed guard, had not been adequately maintained. The company also failed to respond to concerns by staff about the defective guard and had been subject to previous HSE enforcement action on machine guarding. Avon TSA Ltd of South Liberty Lane, Bristol, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 3 (1) of the Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 and Regulation 11 (1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. The company was fined £23,000 and ordered to pay costs of £999. Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Sian Donne said: “This injury was easily prevented and the risk should have been identified. “Employers should make sure they properly plan and apply effective control measures to minimise the risk from dangerous parts of machinery.” Improves safety in your workplace Ballistic fibre for flexibility & strength Extra protection in critical wear area Extends life of the glove hence reducing costs Sharp Shield significantly increases cut and abrasion resistan ce where it’s needed most. We’ve designed it to be integral to the structure of the glove, which means it will remain intact for the life of the glove. SAVE UP TO 18% ON PPE End users report up to 18% lower usage when wearing gloves with Sharp Shield. Lower usage equates to an overall cost saving on PPE. ORDER YOURS TODAY T: 0115 961 9555 W: www.tornadogloves.com E: [email protected] HSE INTERNATIONAL 13