Page 1787 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive

Safety, Health, Environmental & Quality Bulletin No 675

06 June 2019

Cable Strike Injury

A sign fitting contractor has recently been fined £35,000 plus costs after a worker hit live cable whilst
digging a hole for a sign post.

The 22 year old worker was using a breaker to dig the hole for the sign posts at a hotel in Branley, near
Rotherham. He struck a live electrical cable causing a large flash. He suffered burns to both arms, right
hand, and face.

The investigation identified that no service drawings were available, and no CAT scanner had been
used, and the injured person was not trained on the task.

HSE inspector Sarah Robinson said after the hearing: “This wholly avoidable incident was caused by
the failure of the company to appropriately plan and execute a safe system of work whilst fitting the
signs. Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action
against those that fall below the required standards.”

All Xmo crews are training in CAT Scanning and identification of underground services. Results of
scans are saved electronically by the scanners imported into our management system so we can monitor
the correct usage and identify problems or training needs.

Always check the site service drawings and use your CAT scanner before carrying out any work that
involves breaking the surface. If you are unsure of any of this process contact your line manager.

See more details on this incident at https://press.hse.gov.uk/2019/03/25/leicestershire-company-fined-
for-health-and-safety-failings-after-worker-seriously-injured/

We are all a product of learning. Every skill we have; everything we know; everything we believe and everything we do has
been learned throughout the course of our lives. Some of us learn best by studying graphs and charts, some through visual
presentations, and some by reading detailed text books. It is important that we receive information in a format that works for
us as individuals! That’s why at Xmo Strata we use a variety of communication platforms such as bulletins, newsletters,
videos etc. However, if you feel there is a better way for us to share health and safety information, please let us know.
Ultimately, your safety is in your hands – but we will do all we can to keep you well informed!