Cosmetics firm fined £50,000 over electrical risks Thursday 7th November 2024

H.S.E and I.O.S.H magazine reports that a Yorkshire-based Sabel Cosmetics has been fined more than £50,000 after an unannounced inspection by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed significant electrical safety risks to employees. 

The inspection

Inspectors visited the company’s facility in Halifax in July 2022 where they identified critical electrical failings that posed severe risks of electric shock and even electrocution to employees.

The firm, which manufactures liquid and powder hair and body products, was found to have systemic failures in addressing critical electrical risks within its facility. Investigators found that the company had not adequately constructed or maintained its electrical systems, leaving employees at risk of direct exposure to live parts on various pieces of equipment and machinery. The prolonged existence of these breaches significantly increased the chances of electric shock or electrocution for workers.

The prosecution

Sabel Cosmetics pleaded guilty to breaching regulation 4(1) of the Electricity at Work Regulations. As a result, the company was fined £56,695 and ordered to pay £5,949 in prosecution costs when the case was heard in court last month.

After the hearing, HSE inspector Andrea Jones emphasised the critical role of HSE inspections in ensuring workplace safety and preventing injuries or fatalities. 

She noted that simple and affordable safety measures could have addressed the most hazardous issues, highlighting the severe financial and safety consequences of the company's inaction.

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