Healthcare provider fined after worker injury

A private healthcare provider managing a hospital in Ipswich has been fined for safety failings after an employee suffered a fractured kneecap.

Mrs Shelagh Allen was working in the clinic room of a ward, which was being wet-mopped by a housekeeper during the ward's busiest period. Mrs Allen went into the room after completing a patient drugs round and fell badly on her right knee causing a multiple fracture of her kneecap. Her knee was operated on at the hospital that same day and she was discharged two days later. She was fitted with a leg brace and was able to walk only with the aid of crutches for around four months.

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that the company had failed to ensure the safety of Mrs Allen and others whilst working in their hospital.

After the hearing, HSE Inspector Glyn Davies, said:

"Slipping and tripping are the most common causes of major injuries within UK workplaces yet there is freely-available guidance from HSE for employers to use. In 2010/11, 35% of all reported injuries to employees were due to slips, trips or falls. If slips and trips were taken more seriously and proper controls introduced the number of injuries would reduce.”