Basildon Magistrates’ Court heard how Malik Contractors & Engineers Ltd was working at a site St John’s Way in Corringham, Essex in 2016 when members of the public voiced concerns to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).
Malik Contractors & Engineers Ltd was working as principal contractor on the development of a public house and 24 flats.
In response to the tip-offs, HSE carried out three inspections of the site. On each visit inspectors found numerous breaches of workplace safety legislation, including dangerous electrical systems, unsafe work at height across the site, and no fire detection alarm. There was no fire-fighting equipment, despite workers sleeping on site.
As a result HSE issued four prohibition notices and three improvement notices on the firm.
Malik Contractors & Engineers Ltd of Neasden Goods Depot, Neasden, London, was fined a total of £52,000, and ordered to pay £4,415 in costs after pleading guilty to an offence under Regulation 13(1) of the Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015.
HSE inspector David King said after the hearing: “This case highlights the importance complying with enforcement action. Duty holders have the responsibility to provide their workers with appropriate training and equipment so they can work safely. In this case Malik Contractors failed to do so.
“It is essential those responsible for construction work understand they are also responsible for the health and safety of those on and around the construction site, and ensure suitable and sufficient arrangements are in place to plan.”
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