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A WORKER has tragically lost his life in a devastating workplace accident involving heavy granite slabs that fell on him.
Steven White, 61, died while unloading two slabs at his workplace, Blyth Marble, located in Larkhall.
The two pieces of stone, weighing a combined total of 95 kg, toppled over and fatally injured Steven.
He was standing on a lorry using a mechanical lift when the large granite blocks fell onto him.
Emergency services rushed to the scene in September of last year and desperately tried to save Steven.
Despite the paramedics' best efforts, the father of one sadly could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Blyth Marble Ltd, which has its head office in Worksop, has since acknowledged violations of safety regulations at Hamilton Sheriff Court.
The court was informed that there were no written instructions for using "safety posts" to prevent the slabs from falling.
This was recognized as a failure in the site's safety system.
Depute Fiscal Blair Speed stated in court: “The slab lifter seemed to have been positioned on the slabs, causing them to tilt forward, which prompted Mr. White to jump from the lorry.
“As the crane operator continued to raise the ropes, the slabs fell from the lift, striking Mr. White and resulting in fatal injuries.”
The prosecutor noted that working without safety posts "significantly" raises the risk of slabs falling if they become unstable.
After the tragic incident, the equipment used by Steven was inspected and found to be operational, the court was informed.
Blyth Marble has since revised its safety procedures following Mr. White's death.
Barry Smith KC, representing the defense, expressed, “Most importantly, I am instructed to convey the company director's deepest condolences to Mr. White's family.
“The company acknowledges that the work it performs involves risks that must be managed, and it is with great regret that their efforts fell short, leading to this tragedy.
“Lessons have been learned, and safety improvements have been implemented.”
Sheriff Michael Higgins has postponed sentencing for the company until next month.
He added: “I require adequate time to thoroughly consider all the information presented to me.”
Blyth Marble Ltd’s head office is located in Worksop, NottinghamshireCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the workplace accident?
A worker named Steven White was fatally injured when heavy granite slabs fell on him while he was unloading at Blyth Marble.
What were the safety violations identified?
The company admitted to breaching safety laws by failing to provide written instructions for using safety posts to prevent slabs from toppling.
What actions has Blyth Marble taken following the incident?
Blyth Marble has updated its safety procedures in response to the incident and expressed condolences to Mr. White's family.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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