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PHW · Machinery · 2026-02-04

Askern UK Limited fined £24,395 after an employee's fingers were severed by unguarded rollers

South Kirkby, Pontefract, West Yorkshire · Leeds Magistrates' Court

What happened

An employee cleaning a logo printing machine was able to override an interlock safety device. Her fingers were then drawn into unguarded rollers on the machine.

Injuries: Two fingers partially severed.

The breach

Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

The sentence

  • Fine: £24,395
  • Costs: £5,000
HSE inspector

“A suitable interlock and employee training would have prevented this incident.”

What would have prevented it

Interlocks that can be overridden are not a safety control; access to dangerous parts must be reliably prevented.

How PHW helps

The machines, packs and quizzes that fit this kind of site.

Sector

Training and evidence for manufacturing sites

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Machine

Ride-on roller

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Could a visitor on your shop floor check an operator's training record in under a minute?

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Source: HSE press release, Manufacturer fined after employee's fingers severed