A Metal Fabrication Company Fined for Poor Vibration Risk Management

Brief Summary

A metal fabrication company at Immingham Docks was fined after seven workers developed vibration related illnesses. HSE found the company did not properly assess vibration risks, did not reduce exposure to as low a level as reasonably practicable, and did not provide health surveillance and training.

What Was The Incident?

HSE became aware in June 2024 of three reports of vibration related illness among employees of the company. Further cases were identified during the investigation, with a total of seven reports connected to vibration exposure. Workers reported effects such as finger blanching during everyday tasks, numbness at night, reduced ability to grip, and nerve damage.

What Was The Outcome?

The Company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined 44,000 and ordered to pay 8,061.70 in costs at Grimsby Magistrates Court on 26 February 2026.

What Lessons Can Be Learnt?

Assess vibration risks properly. Employers must carry out suitable and sufficient risk assessments for vibration exposure so that control measures target the actual risks to workers.

Reduce exposure to as low as reasonably practicable. Control measures must include organisational and technical steps to reduce vibration exposure, not just manage it after problems arise.

Provide effective health surveillance. Where workers are exposed to significant vibration levels, employers should have a suitable health surveillance system to detect ill health early.

Train and inform workers. Workers need suitable and sufficient information, instruction, and training so they understand the risks and how to work in ways that reduce exposure.

Act promptly, even after management changes. Although a new health and safety manager was appointed in June 2022, the investigation found exposure had already been significant and improvements came too late to prevent harm.

HSE Prosecution Link