Story Highlight
– Flowchem UK fined for worker’s severe chemical burns.
– Incident occurred while decanting hazardous liquid on November 2.
– Investigation revealed inadequate training and PPE usage.
– Company fined £50,000 and ordered to pay costs.
– Flowchem improved safety measures post-incident for workers.
Full Story
A Nottingham-based manufacturer of household cleaning solutions has faced legal consequences following an incident in which an agency worker endured severe burns while on duty. Marzanna Sokolowska, who was employed by Flowchem UK Ltd, experienced painful injuries after a mishap involving a highly corrosive liquid designed for unblocking sinks and drains.
On 2 November 2023, Ms Sokolowska was involved in a process where her team was transferring sink and drain unblocker from large bulk containers into smaller, retail-ready units. During this operation, she inadvertently opened the wrong valve on a nearby 1,000 litre container that was improperly secured, causing the liquid to spray out with significant force. The corrosive substance splashed onto her face, neck, and arms, leading to serious burns, particularly affecting her eye and eyelid.
An investigation conducted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed several shortcomings in the workplace safety practices employed by Flowchem. The findings indicated that the system in place not only compromised the safety of Ms Sokolowska but also posed similar risks to other agency workers. The investigation highlighted that the measures to safeguard workers from leaks or spills of hazardous substances were inadequate.
Training provisions for employees, particularly those who may have limited proficiency in English, were deemed insufficient. The lack of clear communication and proper guidance increased the likelihood of such dangerous incidents occurring. While some personal protective equipment (PPE) was available, it was frequently not worn by the staff. Supervision levels were found to be inadequate, with no effective monitoring implemented to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Additionally, although eye-wash stations were available on site, the overall first aid arrangements did not consider the extent of potential exposures related to the chemicals handled. Notably, there was no emergency shower facility, which is a recommended safety provision under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH). This set of regulations stipulates that employers must assess risks associated with hazardous substances and implement pertinent measures to limit exposure and mitigate potential harm.
Subsequently, Flowchem UK Ltd, located on Mark Street in Sandiacre, Nottingham, admitted to violations of Sections 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. At a hearing on 12 February 2026, Nottingham Magistrates’ Court imposed a penalty of £50,000 on the company alongside costs totalling £7,247.40 and an additional victim surcharge of £2,000.
HSE Inspector Angus Robbins commented on the situation, stating: “The systems of work employed by Flowchem unnecessarily exposed workers to risks of injury from exposure to corrosive chemicals. More suitable working methods, including avoidance of decanting large volumes stored at or above head height could have been employed.” He also noted that following the incident, the company revised its operational procedures to eliminate such hazards in the future.
Ms Sokolowska sustained painful injuries, resulting in her being unable to attend work for an extended period. Despite the significant nature of her burns, particularly to her eye region, she has fortunately made a reasonable recovery and has been able to return to her job.
This prosecution was initiated by the HSE’s enforcement lawyer Andrew Siddall, along with paralegal officer Farhat Basir, highlighting the seriousness with which regulatory bodies view compliance with health and safety legislation. The case serves as a reminder of the paramount importance of ensuring adequate safety measures and training are maintained in industrial settings, particularly when handling hazardous substances.
Experts in workplace safety have emphasized the need for continual assessment of safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future. They suggest regular training sessions for all employees, particularly for those who may struggle with language barriers, to ensure all workers fully understand the risks associated with their tasks and the correct use of safety equipment.
As the manufacturing sector continues to evolve and face new challenges, it remains critical for companies to prioritise the health and safety of their workforce. The incident involving Ms Sokolowska at Flowchem UK Ltd underscores the necessity for proactive steps in safety management to safeguard employees from workplace hazards.
Our Thoughts
Flowchem UK Ltd’s incident involving agency worker Marzanna Sokolowska highlights several breaches of UK health and safety regulations and lessons that could prevent future occurrences. The company did not adhere to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH), which require effective risk assessment and management for handling hazardous substances.
To avoid the accident, proper systems of work should have been established, including the segregation of hazardous liquids and clearer labeling of valves. Training provided to employees, especially those with limited English proficiency, was inadequate, reducing their ability to work safely. Enhanced training and supervision are essential to ensure that workers understand safe operational procedures.
The lack of adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) usage monitoring further violated Section 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, as adequate safety measures were not in place. First aid provisions were insufficient, lacking appropriate equipment like safety showers for chemical exposures. Implementation of more robust safety protocols, including better PPE compliance and emergency response systems, could mitigate similar risks in the future.
