Recent prosecutions: Manufacturer receives six-figure fine following apprentice injury

A manufacturing company was ordered to pay a £187,600 fine and £7,464 in court costs after an apprentice was seriously injured while using a radial-arm drill. The 18-year-old sustained three broken ribs when his shirt got caught in the machinery. He required skin grafts and a five-day hospital stay, was unable to work for six months.

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that the company had failed to take adequate steps to safeguard its workers. The site's radial-arm drills had insufficient guarding and machine operators had not received proper training on using safety features.

Taking care of young workers

Apprentices and younger employees typically require additional safety support. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations, you have specific duties for apprentices and staff under 18. Young workers should not be exposed to risk because of lack of experience, being unaware of existing or potential risks, or lack of maturity.

• Conduct an enhanced 'young person' risk assessment – a legal requirement for anyone under 18.
• Consider Day Zero training to strengthen safety awareness before a worker's first day.
• Tailor training to the worker's role, responsibilities, and risk levels.
• Cover key hazards, procedures, and safety protocols in your workplace.
• Monitor training effectiveness through close on-the-job supervision.
• Think about physical ability and maturity when assigning tasks.
• Follow the legal age limits for using specific equipment and tools.