A Somerset-based Timber company has been fined for carrying out unsafe work at height at a construction site in Oxfordshire.

The Timber Frame Company (TFC), of Red Cross Hall, High Street, Bruton, Somerset, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 33(1)(g) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. It was fined £8,000 with £1,133 in costs.

Oxford Magistrates' Court heard how TFC was contracted to work at Tracey Farm, a country retreat.

A Prohibition Notice (PN) was served by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on the company which prevented work at height around three metres above the ground without adequate precautions.

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However, a HSE investigation discovered the work had not been properly planned or carried out safely. In addition, the company did not have suitable and sufficient measures to prevent workers from falling and sustaining injury.

The PN was also found to be breached when further unsafe work at height took place the following day.

HSE inspector Peter Snelgrove said: "If HSE visits a construction site and has to issue a prohibition notice preventing further work, that shows there is a very real and immediate risk to workers.

"This case should act as a warning to other construction firms. The notices that HSE serve are legally enforceable and companies will find themselves in court if they fail to take action."

(LM/CD)