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Scaffolding contractor fined for failing to exclude public during dismantling ops
Ashacre Scaffolding Limited has been prosecuted after a member of the public was struck on the head by a falling scaffold pole in an alleyway between Union Place car park and Chapel Road, Worthing on 7th February 2011.
Grandmother Carroll Taylor said she was “lucky to be alive” after the 5ft pole “gouged flesh” from her skull and left her with injuries to the head and face.
Worthing Magistrates’ Court heard (October 18) that the Ashacre were contracted to provide scaffolding to enable gutters on the Connaught Theatre to be cleared. On completion of the work Ashacre proceeded to strike the scaffolding.
Three workers from Ashacre started the work but failed to restrict public access to the area where they were working. Sign were not in place letting people know work was taking place overhead.
At around 2pm Mrs Taylor entered the alleyway and the falling pole struck her, leaving her needing hospital treatment.
“Freak gust” of wind caused pole to fall
Sussex-based Ashacre Scaffolding Limited, was fined £15,000 and ordered to pay prosecution costs of £5,936.83, as well as a victim surcharge of £15. The prosecution said: “Although Mrs Taylor received an injury, it’s just a matter of fortune that it wasn’t more serious.”
Solicitors representing the company said a last-minute change of weather caused “gusty conditions” inside the alleyway and a “freak” gust of wind led to the pole falling through a ladder opening.
He added that workers had been unable to cordon off the area to the public without previously applying for a prohibition notice from Worthing Borough Council.