Scaffolding firm fined £20,000 after worker killed by falling board
Summary
A scaffolding contractor has been fined £20,000 after a worker was fatally struck by a falling metal board during dismantling work in Belfast. The investigation found the company failed to properly control the exclusion zone around the scaffold, allowing a person not directly involved in the work to be within the danger area.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors may encounter scaffolded sites during inspections, valuations and defect assessments, so this case reinforces the need to recognise unsafe exclusion zones and suspended or dismantling operations. It also highlights the importance of site safety controls where third parties, contractors or visitors may be present near active works.
Key points
- Fatal incident occurred during scaffold dismantling on Lisburn Road, Belfast.
- HSENI found the exclusion zone was not adequately controlled.
- The company pleaded guilty to a breach of Article 4(1) of the Health and Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978.
- Court imposed a £20,000 fine at Laganside Crown Court.
- Investigator stressed the need for controlled lowering of components and clear barriers to unauthorised access.
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