Story Highlight
– St Olaves Marina fined after worker’s finger amputation.
– Incident occurred during boat lift on May 17, 2023.
– HSE found failures in risk management and training.
– Company pleaded guilty to Health and Safety Act breach.
– Fined £2,000 plus £5,700 in costs at court.
Full Story
A marina situated in the Norfolk Broads has been penalised following an incident that resulted in a worker suffering a severe injury during boat-lifting operations.
The event took place on 17 May 2023 at St Olaves Marina Limited, where a worker, part of Northern Divers (Engineering) Limited, had his fourth finger on his right hand amputated. This injury occurred while he was assisting in lifting a work boat using a telehandler, whose operation was managed by personnel from the marina. As the boat was elevated, the forks of the telehandler accidentally crushed the worker’s hand.
An investigation led by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that St Olaves Marina Limited had not established sufficient measures to manage the risks associated with lifting tasks. Furthermore, it was found that the staff lacked the necessary training for such operations. The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 mandates that employers must implement adequate safeguards for their employees as well as for individuals not in their employment to mitigate risks stemming from work activities.
On 3 October 2025, St Olaves Marina Limited, located on Beccles Road in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, admitted guilt to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. The company received a fine of £2,000 and was ordered to cover costs amounting to £5,700 at Norwich Magistrates Court.
Christopher Booker, an inspector from the HSE, commented on the case, noting that preventable accidents frequently occur due to inadequate planning and execution of work activities. “In this instance, a wholly avoidable incident was caused by the failure to conduct and carry out a simple lift plan. Had the company suitably planned the lifting of the boat, this life-changing injury would not have occurred,” he stated.
The prosecution by the HSE was conducted by enforcement lawyer Karen Park and paralegal Melissa Wardle.
The Health and Safety Executive serves as the principal regulator for workplace health and safety in Britain, aiming to safeguard individuals and environments alike, ensuring that everyone can lead safer and healthier lives. Additional insights into relevant legislation and updates from the HSE can be accessed through their official channels. It is important to note that HSE does not impose sentences or fines; such decisions are made by the court following established sentencing guidelines.
This is a stark reminder that basic risk assessment and staff training are not optional. Proper planning, clear safe systems of work and supervision during high risk tasks like boat lifting should be standard practice to prevent avoidable and life changing injuries.