Worker Suffers Arm Fractures After Unguarded Conveyor

Brief Summary

A food manufacturing company pleaded guilty after a worker cleaning a sausage roll production line had their arm entangled in an unguarded conveyor roller and suffered multiple fractures. The regulator found the employer had not prevented access to rotating parts and the case underlines the need for effective guarding, reliable isolation and clear cleaning procedures.

What Was The Incident?

The incident occurred while a worker was cleaning a sausage roll production line. Although the conveyor had initially been switched off, it began to operate while the worker passed their hand through an unguarded rotating roller. Their arm was pulled into the roller and suffered multiple fractures. The regulator investigation identified a failure to prevent access to the rotating parts of the conveyor, meaning there was inadequate guarding and insufficient provision to stop the machine moving during routine cleaning.

What Was The Outcome?

The employer pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 11(1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 and was fined £333,333. The court also ordered the company to pay £7,644 in costs. The prosecution recorded that the employer had not taken the required measures to stop access to dangerous moving parts.

Key Points To Consider

Machine guarding. Check that fixed guards prevent any access to rotating parts and that any guards allowing routine access are interlocked so the machine cannot move while someone is in the danger area.

Isolation and restart prevention. Review lock out and isolation arrangements used for cleaning. Ensure isolation is positive, that restart controls are secured, and that isolation is verified before work starts.

Cleaning procedures and supervision. Ensure cleaning method statements and risk assessments address mechanical hazards, set out safe systems of work, and require supervision and competence checks so workers are not exposed to unexpected movement.

HSE Prosecution Link