Scottish power firm fined £1.75m after worker seriously scalded

Dunfermline Sheriff Court heard how a plant controller working for ScottishPower Generation Limited (SPGL) was injured when he opened a faulty valve which emitted high pressure, high temperature steam. He sustained serious burns to his chest and legs.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) into the incident which happened on 12 October 2013 found that SPGL were aware of the defect but did not ensure appropriate steps were taken to either repair or remove the valve from use.

ScottishPower Generation Limited, of, Atlantic Quay, Robertson Street, Glasgow pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and was fined £1.75million.

The HSE principal inspector Fiona MacNeill said after the hearing: “The plant controller suffered severe and life changing injuries.  This case has highlighted the importance for every employer of ensuring that systems are in place for maintaining work equipment in a safe condition, efficient working order and in good repair”

For further information on work equipment and machinery visit:http://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/