The Door & Hardware Federation warns of the severe risks linked to improper sectional door installation and maintenance.
- The tragic incident involving Mark Mathers’ death underscores the importance of safe work practices.
- Patrick Forman Industrial Doors faced legal actions, resulting in a substantial fine for safety breaches.
- Authorities emphasise the necessity of adequate risk assessments and safety procedures in the workplace.
- Employers are reminded of their vital duty to safeguard the well-being of their employees.
The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has once again underscored the critical need for proper installation, maintenance, and specification of sectional doors following a tragic accident that claimed the life of Mark Mathers. The fatal incident occurred on 15th September 2018, when Mr Mathers, aged 33, was fatally injured as his hooded sweater became entangled in a garage door’s balancing system while repairing it at Specialist Cars Volkswagen in Aberdeen.
In light of this incident, Patrick Forman Industrial Doors, Mr Mathers’ employer, was prosecuted and received a significant fine of £165,000. The Aberdeen Sheriff Court heard that the company inadequately assessed the safety risks associated with tasks involving door springs. Furthermore, the court found them guilty of failing to implement and maintain a safe system of work, as well as not providing necessary information, instruction, training, and supervision to ensure the safety of their employees.
Sheriff Christine McCrossan emphasised in court that it is imperative for all employers to ensure the health and safety of their employees, highlighting that failing to discharge this duty constitutes an offence. She stated, ‘It is the duty of every employer to ensure the health and safety of all its employees.’ This reinforces the legal obligation faced by employers to adhere to rigorous safety standards to prevent such incidents.
Following the hearing, Nick Perkins, DHF’s senior training and compliance officer, remarked, ‘This tragedy could very well have been avoided had a safe system been put in place.’ He outlined that the accident occurred while Mr Mathers and a colleague were replacing a sectional door spring, which was under tension, and inadvertently released the tension, resulting in fatal injuries. Mr Perkins urged installation and maintenance companies to ensure that all tension is carefully and methodically removed using the correct specification tools before commencing work.
Furthermore, the DHF has strongly advised that companies must utilise appropriate clothing, personal protective equipment, and safe access tools to perform door maintenance tasks safely. Additionally, it is critical to carry out comprehensive risk assessments and produce corresponding method statements as a part of the management of health and safety laws. These precautions are essential to avert similar tragic accidents in the future.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the paramount importance of stringent safety protocols in preventing workplace tragedies.
