NI firm fined after worker suffered ‘permanent and traumatic brain injury’ from fall

In a prosecution brought by Mid Ulster District Council, Multiple Product Designs Ltd pleaded guilty to two breaches of health and safety legislation, after an employee fell when working at height and sustained serious injuries.

The company agreed that the system and method of work used was hazardous and had created the circumstances which had resulted in the employee’s injuries.

In delivering his sentencing remarks at Dungannon Crown Court, sitting in Laganside in Belfast, Judge Fowler QC stated: “It is beyond doubt that the employee has suffered serious and permanent traumatic brain injury. Nothing I can do or say in terms of sentencing can ameliorate his suffering.

“The company accepts that the system of work employed was, particularly with the benefit of hindsight, effectively an accident waiting to happen. It was a rudimentary and unsafe system of work.

“I accept the defence submission that there has been a complete sea change in terms of the company’s approach to Health and Safety and its compliance with the required safety standards.”

Chair of the Council, Martin Kearney, said: “This has been one of the most serious prosecutions taken by the council and we welcome the sentencing which imposes a substantial fine and demonstrates very clearly how vital it is to have robust health and safety policy and practice in place.

“However, this outcome will not reverse the life-changing injuries with which the person has been left and my thoughts are very much with him and his family.”