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PHW · Machinery · 2026-08-25

The Micro Spring and Presswork Company Limited fined £40,000 after a worker was struck by an unstable pillar drill

Redditch, Worcestershire · Kidderminster Magistrates' Court

What happened

A worker was struck by a 500kg pillar drill that became unstable during a forklift lifting operation. The lifting operation had not been properly planned by a competent person.

Injuries: Multiple rib fractures, twelve ribs broken.

The breach

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

The sentence

  • Fine: £40,000
  • Costs: £5,032
HSE inspector

“This was a serious incident which has resulted in significant injury and was entirely preventable.”

What would have prevented it

Plan lifting operations with a competent person and supervise them properly.

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Counterbalance forklift

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Source: HSE press release, Manufacturing company fined after worker fractures twelve ribs in pillar drill incident