In light of a recent incident where an employee of a housing company suffered burns due to striking an underground cable, we want to remind our clients and partners of the paramount importance of health and safety compliance.
MHS Homes, a housing company based in Kent, was fined £528,000 after failing to provide necessary information and tools for safe excavation, leading to a serious accident. This stark reminder highlights the critical need to adhere to safety regulations, especially concerning the identification and handling of underground services.
Ensuring the safety of employees and the public, as well as avoiding substantial fines and legal actions, requires strict compliance with health and safety standards. We urge all our clients to review their safety management systems, especially regarding excavation work and the detection of underground utilities. Safety should always be our top priority.
What can we learn?
- Excavation work poses significant risks, especially when it comes to underground services such as electrical cables.
- Proper training and equipment are crucial for safe excavation and detection of underground utilities.
- Adequate planning, risk assessment, and communication with relevant parties are vital for preventing accidents.
- Non-compliance with health and safety regulations can result in severe consequences, including fines and legal actions.
- Regular review and updates of safety management systems can help prevent accidents and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Prioritising safety not only protects employees and the public but also helps maintain a good reputation for the company.
It’s important to recognise that accidents like these are preventable with proper procedures in place. This case serves as a reminder for companies to prioritise safety and continuously review their processes to ensure they’re not only compliant but also effective in preventing accidents.
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