L'Derry-based contractor S Higgins Construction Ltd has been hit with a £10,000 fine over health and safety failings.

The firm pleaded guilty to two breaches of health and safety legislation at Antrim Crown Court today, 12 December. Antrim farmer Richard McClure also pleaded guilty to two breaches of health and safety legislation for the same case.

The incident occurred when a 23-year-old employee of S Higgins Construction Ltd was injured while assisting with the preparations for the construction of a concrete reinforced wall at the farm of Richard McClure. During this work, a large metal shuttering panel fell on to the employee as he was working close to its base. The worker sustained numerous fractures and injuries as a result.

-- Advertisement --

Investigations found that the shuttering panel was not properly secured to prevent it falling over.

After the hearing Mr Kevin Campbell, an inspector with HSENI’s Construction Team said: "All construction work needs to be properly planned. Farmers must engage contractors with appropriate skill, knowledge & experience, and all work must be carried out in a safe manner. All temporary supports, such as shuttering panels, must be adequately supported  and secured, to prevent them falling over."

(CM/JG)