In a recent legal case, Bio Decontamination Limited faced penalties totalling over £16,000 after hospital staff at Scarborough Hospital suffered life-changing conditions due to exposure to ionised hydrogen peroxide.
On 18th September 2019, the company was tasked with decontaminating the Aspen ward. However, the failure to adequately seal the rooms led to the escape of ionized hydrogen peroxide into the adjacent corridor where hospital staff were present. This breach resulted in three staff members suffering from itchy skin, lightheadednessand life-changing medical conditions that persist in their daily lives.
An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that the work was not properly risk-assessed beforehand. The employees lacked appropriate training and supervisionand the working practices fell below the required standard. Additionally, the level of ionised hydrogen peroxide was not adequately monitored to warn of potential releases, putting people at risk.
Penalties Imposed:
- Bio Decontamination Limited pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
- The company was fined £16,775.
- Ordered to pay £27,228 in costs.
HSE Inspector Darian Dundas emphasized the importance of suitable risk assessments, trainingand supervision in preventing such incidents. Proper control measures and safe working practices are crucial to maintaining a safe working environment.
#WorkplaceSafety #HealthAndSafety #LegalUpdate 🚧👷♂️
