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A Liverpool-based housing association has been fined after four employees developed a debilitating condition from using vibrating power tools regularly.
Onward Homes plead guilty at Liverpool Magistrates Court to breaching the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005.
It was fined £80,000 and ordered to pay costs of £5,293.10.
The verdict follows an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) that found Onward failed to prevent or reduce its employees’ exposure to intensive and protracted vibration.
According to the HSE, Onward failed to provide employees with information and training about the risks of exposure to vibration, and they were unaware they were at risk
Exposure could have been reduced or eliminated had the employees been aware, it added.
Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Emily Osborne said: “If exposure to vibration is not controlled, workers can end up being diagnosed with hand-arm vibration syndrome, which can be the cause of significant ill-health, triggering painful and disabling disorders of the blood vessels, nerves and joints.
“Under these circumstances HSE can and will investigate – and prosecute where appropriate.”
Sandy Livingstone, executive director – property at Onward, said: “Colleague safety is paramount to Onward and we have fully cooperated with the Health and Safety Executive in its investigation.
“Action has been taken to avoid a recurrence and Onward will continue to monitor its policies and procedures to ensure that they reflect best practice and legal compliance.”
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