Legal News

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has prosecuted a manufacturing firm after a worker suffered flash burns to her face, neck, chest and both arms.

Pyronix Limited manufactures intruder alarm equipment – part of the manufacturing process involves dipping Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) in the highly flammable substance Fluorocoat Thin Film Coating, to provide humidity protection.

In April 2015, the injured worker was dipping baskets containing a variety of the PCBs, which had batteries pre-installed.

As the worker removed a basket out of the tank, she saw a “burning cloud” go through the tank – and was unable to avoid being burnt after the Fluorocoat had been ignited.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive found that changes needed to be made in the planning of the activity.

A number of modifications were made to the tank and process, which included not installing the battery into the PCB until after dipping, adding local exhaust ventilation to the tank – and additional measures to control static.

Employees also received additional training.

At Sheffield Magistrates’ Court, Pyronix Limited of Hellaby in Rotherham, South Yorkshire pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2 (1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

The company was fined £140,000 with £3,133.25 costs.

After the hearing, HSE inspector Laura Hunter said:

“This incident could so easily have been avoided by simply carrying out correct control measures and safe working practices.

“Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”

Duncan Lewis Personal Injury Solicitors

Duncan Lewis Personal Injury Solicitors can advise those who suffer burn injuries as a result of negligence on how to make a no win no fee compensation claim – including claims relating to: