A Newquay building contractor has been fined for allowing multiple safety failings at a new-build construction site, exposing workers to serious risk of injury.
On 28 November, Bodmin Magistrates' Court heard that Paul David Brannan was the principal contractor at the four-storey apartment block in Mount Wise, Newquay.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that numerous 'fall from height' risks were observed at the site, including unprotected edges in floor-to-ceiling window openings, the lift shaft and stairwell. Scaffolding was also incomplete.
A health and safety inspection had been carried out by a competent advisor two months before the HSE inspection. The fall risks were highlighted by the advisor, yet no effective action had been taken by Mr Brannan to make improvements or to eliminate the safety risks.
Paul David Brannan, of Ulalia Road, Newquay, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 6(3) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005. He was fined £3,000 and ordered to pay costs of £1,800.
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