Chemical Manufacturer Fined After Worker Injured By Conveyor Machinery

Easy Cleaning Solutions Ltd was fined after an employee removed a cardboard box from a running conveyor and suffered hand injuries when the hand became caught in unguarded machinery. HSE found the company breached Regulation 11(1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 by failing to prevent access to dangerous parts, and the case underlines the need for suitable guarding on conveyors and handling equipment.

Easy Cleaning Solutions Ltd, based in Thetford, was fined after an employee at its chemical manufacturing site on 24 April 2024 removed a cardboard box from a running conveyor and had their hand caught in unguarded machinery. The worker sustained a broken finger and bruising to three other fingers, required surgery and was off work for six weeks.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive found the powered conveyor linking two pieces of handling equipment in the packaging area did not prevent access to dangerous parts. HSE concluded the company breached Regulation 11(1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 by failing to take effective measures to stop people reaching moving parts.

At Norwich Magistrates Court on 17 July 2026 the company pleaded guilty and was fined £100,000 and ordered to pay costs of £6,468.18. The prosecution was brought by HSE legal officers following their investigation.

For health and safety professionals and employers the case reinforces the need to check guarding on conveyors and associated handling equipment. Fixed guards are the usual control. Where routine access is required consider interlocking guards or guard locking to stop dangerous parts moving before someone can reach into the danger zone, and confirm compliance with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998.

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