A roofing company boss has been jailed after a worker fell 3m through a fragile roof onto concrete floor resulting in multiple fractures and a fractured skull.
A man and labourer were working on behalf of the roofing company to remove old skylights on a premise when the roof gave way, causing the accident.
The HSE found that the work that was taking place could have taken place from underneath the roof, lowering the level of risks faced. Also, nets had not been used as a precaution to prevent a fall should the roof collapse. With these in mind, it was evident that the work at height had not been assessed, managed, or supervised effectively. In addition, the company did not have employers’ liability insurance to ensure employers have at least the minimum level of insurance to cover against claims brought by employees that are injured at work or ill because of work.
The boss pleaded guilty to breaches under Section 1(1) of the Employers Liability (Compulsory Insurance) act 1969 and Regulation 4(1) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (as amended) at Coventry Magistrates’ Court. He was sentenced to four months in Prison at Redditch Magistrates’ Court.
