Food manufacturing company prosecuted after two workers scalded

A food manufacturing company has been prosecuted by Health and Safety Executive (HSE) after two workers suffered serious scald injuries during a steam pipe maintenance activity.

The workers were replacing a leaking gasket in an isolation valve when they were splashed with hot water from the steam pipework. They both suffered scald injuries, one suffered 4-5% subdermal burns and the other 9% subdermal second-degree burns.

HSE’s investigation found that the company had not suitably risk assessed the task and had failed to document a safe system of work. Isolation and lock off procedures were not used at the time of the incident.

The company pleaded guilty to breaching section 2(1) Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and was sentenced to a fine of £594,000 plus costs.

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