Page 589 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive

Investigation Findings:

• Engineers attended site to carry out installation of various forecourt canopy panels and
secondary ground signs. It is agreed that during these works they were carrying out their task
safely and properly including wearing harnesses whilst working at height and adhering to all
site rules.
• Upon completion of their day’s work, the engineers packed away their equipment (including
their harnesses) and were having a cup of tea in the site canteen, when the customer asked if
they could find him in a few minutes as he had some issues with some of the signage. The
customer explained that he was unhappy with the finish of the shop fascia and pointed out two
small dents in the fascia panels. The issue was to be rectified that day.
• Whilst one engineer spoke to the Xmo Strata Project Coordinator to arrange new panels, the
other engineer was asked to bring the MEWP round to the shop front.
• As the engineer had a battery drill with him, and his colleague was still on the phone, he
decided to start removing the front panel. He got into the machine, raised it to the level of the
pod, and removed the bottom fixings, to allow the pod front panel to be lifted off.
• Seeing that help was needed, the phone call was ended and both engineers started to work on
the fascia.
• Both engineers realised at that moment that they didn’t have their harnesses on.
• The MEWP was immediately lowered and the engineers returned to the van to get their
harnesses back out. It was at this time that the customer was told that the engineers were
breaching safety regulations.
• Both engineers immediately admitted they were in the wrong and it was an oversight. They
explained that they had both been wearing harnesses all day.
• The engineers were asked to leave site.

Outcome of Disciplinary Hearing:

Both employees were found guilty of gross misconduct for not wearing harnesses in a MEWP which is
a breach of site rules.

The engineers’ length of service with Xmo Strata, the quality of their past work and previous site
conduct were all taken into consideration. It was also highlighted that harnesses had been used
previous to the incident.

Both engineers seemed genuinely sorry and contrite for their mistake and now understand how
important it is to comply with the rules put in place for the safety of themselves and others.

The engineers have not been dismissed but have received a first and final written warning. Both
employees will also be sent on an IPAF refresher course.