Brick manufacturer chargehand crushed by conveyor system

Burnley Magistrates’ Court heard how on 8 July 2017, Eddie Ely, a chargehand with Forterra Building Products was working with a group of colleagues to remove a blockage and spillage on a conveyor when he was drawn into the conveyor system. Guards had been removed from the machine but the power had not been isolated.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that Forterra Building Products had failed to properly ensure that machines were always isolated from power, to be made safe, before guarding was removed from machinery.

Forterra Building Products pleaded guilty to breaching Sections 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc act 1974. Total fines of £200000 were imposed with costs of £7529.11.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Steven Boyd said: “This case shows the devastating consequences of coming into contact with dangerous machinery. It is crucial that companies have a clear procedure for isolating machinery and they have appropriate supervision and monitoring to ensure it is adhered to.”