A Tower Hamlets-based building contractor has been fined after a worker's hand was severely injured by an unguarded power tool.

A prosecution by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) was brought after the incident on 14 October 2009, when the self-employed carpenter was working on the refurbishment of flats.

The 22-year-old, who does not wish to be named, was working at the property in Cleveland Street, Westminster, for Grand Plans (UK) Ltd. He and his brother were levelling and insulating the floors on the second storey. He had provided his own hand tools, and also used an unguarded bench saw which was available for use on site.

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Marylebone Magistrates Court heard yesterday (4 April) that the carpenter was feeding timber through the bench saw, when the wood slipped out. He caught his hand on the saw blade, and half of his little finger and half of his ring finger on his right hand were severed.

The worker has suffered life changing injuries with irreparable damage. He has had several operations since the incident and is due to have more to repair nerve and tendon damage. The injuries mean he cannot continue with his career as a carpenter.

Grand Plans (UK) Ltd, which is now in liquidation, was found guilty of breaching Regulation 11 of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment 1998 in relation to the incident after failing to attend the court hearing. The company was fined £7,500 and ordered to pay full costs of £3,881.

(CD/GK)