Rolls-Royce prosecuted after workers exposed to hazardous substances

Power systems provider Rolls-Royce has been prosecuted after it exposed employees to hazardous substances, it has been revealed.

In total, five Chesterfield agency workers working for the company were affected.

They suffered skin rashes and chest problems after coming into contact with potassium fluorosilicate, fumes from hot metal cutting and oxides of sulphur.

An investigation discovered that proper risk assessments had not been conducted and, as a result, safe working practices were not put in place.

During a hearing at Derby crown court, the firm - which has operations in 50 countries across the world - was fined £120,000 and was ordered to pay costs of £12,122.

Commenting on the case, Health and Safety Executive inspector Noelle Walker said: "Employers must ensure that decommissioning work is properly planned to take account of health and safety risks and that employees and agency workers are made fully aware of the risks associated with hazardous substances."

22/07/2008 11:38