A construction company has been fined over health and safety concerns.

Malik Contractors and Engineers Ltd of Neasden Goods Depot, Neasden, London, pleaded guilty to an offence under Regulation 13(1) of The Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015. It was fined £52,000 with £4,415 in costs.

Basildon Magistrates' Court heard how the company was working at a construction site at St John's Way in Corringham, Essex in 2016. The firm was acting as principal contractors for the development of a public house and 24 flats.

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However, following contact from concerned members of the public, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) carried out three inspections of the site. On each visit the inspectors and visiting officers found numerous breaches of health and safety legislation, including dangerous electrical systems, unsafe work at height across the site, and no fire detection alarm. There was no fire-fighting equipment, despite workers sleeping on site.

As a result, HSE issued for Prohibition Notices (PNs) and three Improvement Notices (INs) on the firm.

HSE inspector David King said: "This case highlights the importance complying with enforcement action. Duty holders have the responsibility to provide their workers with appropriate training and equipment so they can work safely. In this case Malik Contractors failed to do so.

"It is essential those responsible for construction work understand they are also responsible for the health and safety of those on and around the construction site, and ensure suitable and sufficient arrangements are in place to plan."

(LM/JP)