A fine of £15,000 imposed on an Essex firm for repeatedly failing to have its dust extraction system and fork lifts thoroughly examined is a timely reminder that safety needs constant vigilence.

The company in question, prosecuted by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), was Welsted Joinery. But the same applies to any company, including masons. The company appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on 10 September. The court heard that enforcement notices had been issued on these matters and others over a period of 10 years.

Welsted Joinery Ltd of 31 Cutlers Road, South Woodham Ferrers pleaded guilty to two breaches of Regulation 9(3) of the Lifting Operations & Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 and one breach of Regulation 9(2) of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002.

It was fined £5,000 for each offence and ordered to pay costs totalling £2,240.50.

HSE inspector Saffron Turnell said: "This case sends out a clear message that HSE will prosecute when Inspectors find serious health & safety failings, particularly when previous enforcement and advice has been provided." 

He said dust is a significant danger to people working in such environments. You can find details of legislation referring to dust at www.legislation.gov.uk.