Two companies have been fined a total of GB pound 85,000 for “numerous failings” that led to a massive gas-main fire in 2010.
The massive blaze happened in Leeds on 3 September 2010, causing the closure of a major road in the city and the evacuation of six homes. Fortunately, no one was hurt when sparks from welding work on a new section of gas main ignited the fire.
The gas supply had not been properly isolated, and as workers fled the scene flames were sent up to 20 feet into the air.
Northern Gas Networks Operations Ltd. and Morgan Sindall (Infrastructure) plc neglected basic safety measures, according to the Health and Safety Executive, who investigated the incident. NGNO hired MSI to divert the gas mains on a ring road that was due to have major layout works undertaken. MSI in turn sub-contracted elements of the work out to two other firms, the court heard.
The sub-contractors were only competent in specific parts of the job, according to the HSE, and did not understand the full scope of the works. Investigators said that NGNO and MSI did not plan the work or safety controls sufficiently.
HSE Inspector, Ian Redshaw, said:
Someone could have been killed or badly injured in this incident. Thankfully no one was hurt, but this was a severe fire that was a danger to workers and local people.
There were numerous failings by both companies in the planning, organisation and execution of the work – most importantly the failure to consider and control the risks associated with welding near live gas mains.
When undertaking high hazard activities such as this, it is essential that the proper steps are taken to ensure that risks are fully considered and then controlled.
This type of activity is regularly undertaken in the gas industry and all the safety practices are well established and common knowledge in the industry. Thankfully incidents are rare, but if they do occur the consequences can be devastating.
Both companies pleaded guilty at Leeds Crown Court to one offence under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which states that employers have a duty to ensure that those not under their employment are not exposed to risks to their health and safety. The potential for this incident to cause great harm to nearby residents and the workers involved was significant enough to result in large fines.
NGNO was fined GB pound 35,000 plus costs of GB pound 8,453, while MSI, which supervised the works, was fined GB pound 50,000 plus GB pound 12,900 in costs.
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