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PHW · Manufacturing · 2021-10-19

Bakkavor Fresh Cook Ltd fined £130,000 after a worker was crushed inside an overridden cooking machine

Holbeach St Marks, Spalding, Lincolnshire · Lincoln Magistrates' Court

What happened

An employee was crushed in an industrial cooking machine while attempting to clear a blocked water inlet. The machine's safety systems had been overridden and it was operating while the worker was inside instead of being isolated first.

Injuries: Two broken ribs.

The breach

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

The sentence

  • Fine: £130,000
  • Costs: £2,607
HSE inspector

“Those in control of work have a responsibility to devise safe methods of working and provide training to their workers.”

What would have prevented it

Machinery must be properly isolated before any worker enters it for clearance or maintenance work, and overridden safety systems are a serious risk indicator.

How PHW helps

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

Sector

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Quiz

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Source: HSE press release, Lincolnshire food manufacturer fined after employee crushed in cooking machine