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PHW · Machinery · 2026-02-09

Carter Brothers International Limited fined £10,000 after a worker's finger was amputated by a rotating lathe

Manchester, Greater Manchester · Manchester Magistrates' Court

What happened

An employee was using emery cloth to polish metal work pieces when his glove became caught in the rotating lathe he was operating. HSE guidance explicitly states emery cloth should never be applied directly by hand to rotating lathe work.

Injuries: A finger on his right hand was amputated and he could no longer work in his trade as a turner.

The breach

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

The sentence

  • Fine: £10,000
  • Costs: £3,759
HSE inspector

“This incident not only left the employee with a life-altering injury, but also meant they could not continue working in their chosen profession.”

What would have prevented it

Hand-held abrasive cloth must never be applied directly to rotating lathe work; a proper holder or guard is required.

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Source: HSE press release, Machine manufacturer fined £10,000 after lathe incident leaves employee with finger amputated