Worker Suffers Horrific Injury in Tyre Company Machine Accident
A tyre refurb company faced significant consequences after one of its employees suffered a horrific injury in a machine accident. Neal Hetherington, a 42-year-old worker at D&D Commercial Services Ltd in Lamson Road, Rainham, had his torso shredded when he was pulled into a tyre buffing machine by his t-shirt in August 2021.
The Devastating Incident
The incident occurred as Neal was working on the tyre buffing machine, which was freewheeling to a stop after being used. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reported that Neal was pulled into the spinning blades of the machine, resulting in severe injuries that left him unable to work for several months. The extent of his injuries was described as having his torso shredded, highlighting the gruesome nature of the accident.
Failure to Ensure Safety
An investigation by the HSE revealed that D&D Commercial Services Ltd had failed to ensure that the necessary safety measures were in place. Specifically, the company neglected to ensure that the ‘hold to run’ controls were functioning properly and that a brake was operational on the machine. Had the brake been working as intended, it would have immediately stopped the machine’s blades upon release of the controls. However, due to the lack of proper safety mechanisms, the machine continued to freewheel for approximately five minutes after use, leading to the tragic accident.
The consequences of this failure in safety protocols were significant, both for the injured worker and the company itself. Last Wednesday, D&D Commercial Services Ltd was fined £54,000 and ordered to pay £6,000 in costs by Westminster Magistrates’ Court after being found guilty of a health and safety breach. The severity of the penalty sends a clear message that companies will be held accountable for failing to protect their workers.
Message to the Industry
HSE inspector Oscar Dower emphasized the importance of this case as a warning to the industry. He stated, “This case sends a clear message to industry that HSE will hold companies to account if they fail to protect their workers. The company allowed its workers to use a machine that was not adequately braked or guarded, leading to significant and wholly avoidable injuries to one of its employees. If the company had ensured the machine’s safety features were working as they should have been, this would not have happened.”
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining proper safety protocols in the workplace. Ensuring that machinery is equipped with functioning safety mechanisms can prevent devastating accidents like the one that befell Neal Hetherington.
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
In the aftermath of the accident, D&D Commercial Services Ltd has hopefully taken steps to rectify the safety deficiencies that led to the incident. Implementing regular safety checks, providing thorough training for employees on machinery operation, and prioritizing a culture of safety within the workplace are crucial steps in preventing future accidents.
Furthermore, other companies in the industry can learn from this tragedy and reevaluate their own safety protocols to ensure that similar incidents are avoided. The well-being of employees should always be the top priority, and investing in comprehensive safety measures is an essential aspect of fulfilling that responsibility.
In conclusion, the unfortunate accident that resulted in Neal Hetherington’s severe injury serves as a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting safety in the workplace. It is imperative for companies to prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees, taking proactive measures to prevent accidents and ensure a secure working environment for all.