Tipperary company fined €75,000 after employee suffered serious injury in workplace

7th July 2023

Today, Friday 7th of July, at Waterford Circuit Court, Judge Eugene O’ Kelly imposed a fine of €75,000 on Gleeson Concrete Unlimited, Donohill, Co. Tipperary for breaches of health and safety legislation.

The company, pleaded guilty to the following offence under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005: Section 8 (2)(a) of the Safety, Health & Welfare at Work Act 2005 as it relates to Section 77 (9)(a) in that they failed to manage and conduct work activities in such a way as to ensure the safety of employees.

The prosecution arose after an incident occurred on the 31st of March 2021 at the concrete block making plant at Donohill, Co. Tipperary. An employee of the company suffered serious injuries when his right hand was amputated while clearing a blockage of cement from an auger.

Mark Cullen, Assistant Chief Executive, HSA, commented “Certain work activities will involve hazards that may have significant higher level of risks, risks that give rise to the potential of serious personal injury if not identified and managed appropriately. It is essential that employers manage and conduct the work activities being carried out at the place of work to ensure the safety, health and welfare of all employees.”

ENDS