Accident was 'waiting to happen'

An industrial accident at a Merseyside company where a worker broke his leg could have been prevented, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Sonae UK has been fined £35,000 for its part in the accident at the Knowsley Industrial Park in March 2001.

Michael McNamara broke his leg when he caught it in a piece of machinery he was trying to unblock.

The combination of a lack of safeguards with the lack of training and supervision left this an accident waiting to happen

Ian Connor, HSE

Knowsley Magistrates Court heard he should not have been able to get so near to dangerous machinery.

Ian Connor from the Health and Safety Executive said the fine sends out a clear message to employers about the need for safety procedures in the workplace.

"It is a lesson not just for Sonae, but for all employers to assess the risks and make sure proper safeguards are in place, as well as making sure employees are adequately trained and supervised.

"The combination of a lack of safeguards with the lack of training and supervision left this an accident waiting to happen."