10 March 2010
A builder put the health and safety of himself and others at risk when he worked on a roof without any safety equipment.
This was the finding of a prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) against Charles Molloy from Molloy Building Contractors.
A HSE inspector saw 64-year-old Mr Molloy and another man working on the Black Horse Hotel in St Helens last year.
The workers were replacing tiles but neither of them wore harnesses, used scaffolding or any other safety measures.
Inspector for the body Sandra Tomlinson said: "Mr Molloy apparently had little concern for his own safety, or that of those he employed, by working so precariously on a rooftop."
Previous warnings had been issued to both men but they were ignored.
After being found guilty of breaching the Work at Height Regulations 2005, Mr Molloy was fined £1,500 and must pay £1,000 in costs.
Business Link explains that many precautions must be taken by those working on roofs.
For example, duckboards must be used to cover fragile surfaces and risk assessments must be carried out.
For further information on any of our Health and Safety services or to find out how we can assist you please call us on 08456 122 144.
Posted by James Hill