Persimmon subsidiary Space 4 fined £65,000 for employee death

Persimmon subsidiary, Birmingham-based constrution module manufacturer Space 4, has been fined £65,000 and ordered to pay £60,000 costs at Birmingham Crown Court, following the death of one of its workers in 2001.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) prosecuted the firm after Philip Macken, from Yardley, Birmingham died when he was injecting insulation foam into an internal wall panel for use in a new home.

Following problems with the automated machine, Macken entered the foam injection enclosure to make an adjustment.

But while he was inside the enclosure, the machine started automatically. Macken became trapped against it and received fatal crush injuries.

HSE investigating inspector Tony Mitchell said: "Guarding and fencing of automated machinery is a basic requirement and the standards are well known. Simple checks should be carried out to ensure workers are protected from dangerous parts and that safety features are fitted in good order.

Space 4 pleaded guilty to a breach under section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.