Ryton Factory Worker Seriously Injured by 1.8 Tonnes of Metal Sheets
A Ryton factory worker was seriously injured when 1.8 tonnes of metal sheets fell on him, leading to a significant fine for the company.
Ryton, Gateshead, Aliweld Ltd, Health and Safety, Workplace Injury
Ryton: A worker at Aliweld Ltd was seriously injured when 1.8 tonnes of metal sheets fell on him. The incident happened at a manufacturing site in Gateshead.
The 58-year-old welder was hurt when aluminium sheets stored incorrectly fell on him. He managed to escape but was rushed to the hospital with severe injuries.
He spent two weeks in intensive care for a ruptured pancreas and other injuries. The Health and Safety Executive investigated and found Aliweld had violated safety laws.
In court, it was revealed that the sheets were stored on an A-frame instead of flat on the ground. This unsafe storage method led to the accident.
The company has since changed its procedures to ensure sheets are stored flat. They were fined £16,666 and must pay additional costs.