 Home Health and Safety Health and Safety News
Blocked conveyor belt injury
17 December 2007
A blocked conveyor belt at the retail company TK Maxx’s distribution centre led to employee Christopher Polles being unconscious for almost a month.
The blockage of cardboard boxes on the belt was near to the ceiling and Mr Polles was 10-12 feet up on a ladder when he fell fracturing his skull. The company were aware of the problems with the belt and had received a letter from the local council advising them how to avoid the blockages.
The company have been fined almost £60,000 at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court for what was described as ‘an accident waiting to happen’. Since the accident the conveyor belt has been lowered to stop boxes from jamming on their way to the compactor.
Even though the accident happened over two years ago Mr Polles still suffers ill effects and is unable to drive.
Usdaw members are advised not to climb up conveyor belts to clear blockages and to ensure safe systems of work are in place along with appropriate risk assessments, coupled with adequate training before attempting to unblock belts.
Contact Details
Health and Safety section
Ph: 0161 249 2441
Fax: 0161 249 2475
Email: healthandsafety@usdaw.org.uk
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