A FIRM has been fined £750,000 after a Kidderminster man who worked there became entangled in a lathe and died.
Nick Hardiman, 54, was using handheld emery cloth at Somers Forge Limited in Halesowen on December 8, 2023, when the incident happened.
The incident was investigated by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) which found the company failed to prohibit dangerous working practices, prevent access to moving machinery parts and establish safe operating procedures.
The company also failed to ensure personal protective equipment (PPE) was worn by workers, did not create risk of being injured by, or drawn into, the lathe and did not undertake a suitable and sufficient risk assessment for the lathe or establish a safe operating procedure
HSE guidance states emery cloth should never be applied directly by hand as there is a risk of the operator becoming entangled or dragged into the danger zone.
Catastrophic injuries
Whilst using handheld emery cloth to finish a rotating component, Mr Hardiman became entangled in the dangerous moving parts of the lathe, sustaining catastrophic injuries.
Despite the efforts of emergency services, Nick Hardiman sadly died later that evening.
Mr Hardiman leaves behind his partner, Melanie, his siblings Robert, Glenis, Lorraine and David and his parents Michael and Doreen.
Nick’s siblings Robert, Glenis, Lorraine and David said: “We can’t comprehend how someone can go to work and not come home again.
“Everyone is absolutely devastated.”
Somers Forge Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
The company was fined £750,000 and was ordered to pay £38,314 in costs at Walsall Magistrates’ Court.
Nick’s partner Melanie said: “Nick had everything to live for – a loving home and a partner who adored him, family and friends, and a fulfilling life ahead of him.
“We used to have a life – now I just exist.
“I will forever miss the sound of his voice, the smell of his aftershave, the feel of his cuddles and kisses and the times we would spend together.”
Nick’s father Michael said: “We feel very proud when we speak about Nick, but it really hurts to talk.
“We think about Nick every single day.”
HSE Inspector Sophie Neale said: “This was an entirely preventable incident which has had tragic consequences.
“Employers must ensure safe systems of work are in place and that workers are not exposed to foreseeable risks from dangerous machinery.
“My thoughts are with Nick’s family and friends.”
This prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyer Chloe Ward, and paralegal officer Stephen Grabe.
