A worker from Warwickshire, Andrew Elson, is facing an uncertain future after a severe workplace accident left him with a serious arm injury. The 54-year-old Rugby resident suffered multiple fractures to his ulna and radius while he was clearing debris from a radial arm drill at Screening Consultancy and Supplies Ltd.
The accident took place on November 25, 2022. Elson had to undergo surgery to mend six bone fractures. During his recovery, he shared his worries about what’s to come: “For nearly two months, I lost my independence and had to rely on my wife for everything. I’m not sure what the future holds.”
Elson, who works as a manual labourer, is unsure about his ability to continue in his job: “My job depends on my hands, but now I’m dealing with stiffness, numbness, and pain in my fingers. I don’t know how much longer I can keep doing this.”
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) started an investigation and found that the company didn’t carry out a proper risk assessment or set up a safe working procedure. Screening Consultancy and Supplies Ltd confessed to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and received a fine of £28,000. They were also told to pay £3,616 in costs after the ruling at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on September 19.
HSE Inspector Charlie Rowe highlighted the importance of the case: “This prosecution highlights the need for employers to thoroughly assess risks and make sure safe work systems are in place for all machinery operations.”
