A North Devon decorating supplies firm has been fined after HSE inspectors discovered it had not provided employees with hot water to wash their hands, despite the fact they were at risk of contracting dermatitis.
Mike Wye and Associates Ltd, who produce natural building and decorating products, failed to provide hot water over a period of four years despite workers using hydrated lime for the manufacture of lime putty. Hydrated lime is a well-known irritant to both skin and eyes and can cause dermatitis.
The HSE told Barnstaple Magistrates that running water was provided at the Buckland Filleigh Sawmills site, but this froze in the winter.
After the hearing, HSE commented: “The provision of hot running water is one of the most basic rights for workers, especially when they are dealing with materials that could cause skin disease.
“Although the company provided cold water and gel this did not encourage workers to wash their hands.”
Mike Wye and Associates Ltd pleaded guilty to three contraventions of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and were fined a total of £3,500 with £588 costs.
