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PHW · Manufacturing · 2026-01-28

Syngenta Ltd fined £400,000 after an uncontrolled release of high-pressure steam during repairs

Huddersfield · Leeds Magistrates' Court

What happened

During steam trap replacement, an isolation valve failed while a mechanical fitter was cutting bolts using a reciprocating saw, causing an uncontrolled release of high-pressure steam. The worker narrowly escaped serious injury.

Injuries: no injury: narrowly escaped serious injury from steam release

The breach

Regulation 5(1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998; Regulation 3(1) of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

The sentence

  • Fine: £400,000
  • Costs: £8,288
HSE inspector

“If a safe system of work had been in place at the site when the maintenance was being carried out, this dangerous incident would not have happened.”

What would have prevented it

Isolation of pressurised systems must be verified as fully effective before maintenance work begins on associated pipework.

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Source: HSE press release, Major chemical firm hit with £400,000 fine after dangerous steam release