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An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive found that several HPA employees at the Centre for Infections were put at risk of being infected with E. coli O157 in October 2007.
A sample of the bacteria was dropped onto the floor during tests, but HPA officials failed to carry out a rigorous risk assessment and had not adequately trained staff to deal with this type of situation.
After pleading guilty to a breach of Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 at City of London magistrates court, the HPA was given the fine and must also pay £20,166.10 in costs.
HSE specialist inspector Jennifer Higham remarked: "E. coli O157 is a highly infectious and potentially deadly bacterium and there are well established practices for handling this safely. Several staff and potentially their families [were exposed] to a real risk of infection. "
The HSE regularly warns parents and farmers of the risks of children being infected with E. coli O157 when they come into contact with animals at petting centres.
Quantum Risk Management are leading Health and Safety Consultants
HPA fined £25k over 'serious' health and safety breach
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has been hit with a £25,000 fine over a "serious breach" of health and safety regulations.An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive found that several HPA employees at the Centre for Infections were put at risk of being infected with E. coli O157 in October 2007.
A sample of the bacteria was dropped onto the floor during tests, but HPA officials failed to carry out a rigorous risk assessment and had not adequately trained staff to deal with this type of situation.
After pleading guilty to a breach of Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 at City of London magistrates court, the HPA was given the fine and must also pay £20,166.10 in costs.
HSE specialist inspector Jennifer Higham remarked: "E. coli O157 is a highly infectious and potentially deadly bacterium and there are well established practices for handling this safely. Several staff and potentially their families [were exposed] to a real risk of infection. "
The HSE regularly warns parents and farmers of the risks of children being infected with E. coli O157 when they come into contact with animals at petting centres.
Quantum Risk Management are leading Health and Safety Consultants
Posted on 12/07/2010
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0845 6780076
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