Waste company handed £40,000 fineA hazardous waste company in York has been fined for failing to safeguard flammable liquid, which was later used in an arson attack on the company.
Harrogate Magistrates' Court heard drums of volatile chemicals were illegally processed close to unprotected electrical equipment at BCB Environmental Managrment Limited, based at Marston Business Park.
The problem came to light after a former employee at the company was able to gain access to the chemicals in an arson attack in 2008.
The arsonist has since been convicted for his actions.
It was also heard in court that a dangerous drum-crushing machine was in use at the site, which breached safe work equipment regulations.
A Health and Safety Executive investigation found employees at the company were exposed to dangerous internal mechanics on the machine, including a hydraulic ram which could apply two tonnes of pressure, because safety measures were not in place.
HSE inspectors also found the safety stop switch on the machine was covered in grime.
BSB Environmental pleaded guilty to beaching various health and safety laws, and was fined £40,000.
Copyright © Press Association 2010
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