Public Health and Safety at Risk, School Being Fined
A Colchester secondary school has been fined over public safety and health. A school boy was injured when a stack of wood fell on him. The accident led to an ankle and foot injury. The incident happened on March 3, 2011. The 15 year old was in the main foyer where the wood was stored. The accident caused the 300 kilogram stack to fall on him, trapping his foot when it fell. A fracture of his ankle and foot could leave him with permanent injuries. The HSE conducted health and safety audits to determine the cause of the incident. They needed to determine if the school was in any way at fault for a risk to students due to the lumber being piled in the main foyer.
The investigation led to the prosecution of the school. This is why fines have been levied against the school. The school did not adequately protect the students concerning risks in the technology department. Had the wood been stored differently, the incident may not have occurred, and workstation risk assessments are paramount at any job or public venue including schools. The fact is the school did not ensure the safety of students in this particular matter that led to the teenage boy’s injuries. The fines and costs charged to the school will add up to more than £14,000. It is a lesson for other schools and employment locations about the need to learn about safety and health.
