Norfolk sawmill fined for safety failings

Norwich Magistrates’ Court heard the teenage worker was clearing sawdust from a running resaw at the Felthorpe mill when his glove caught in the rollers and his hand was dragged into the running blade.

Despite wearing two pairs of gloves he suffered severe lacerations to his hand and fingers, requiring surgery.

A Health & Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found protective guards had been removed from the machine’s power feed rollers. In addition, all resaws at the mill were being routinely operated without similar guards.

After the incident they were replaced and their use enforced by the company.

“Resaws are equipped with power feed rollers so the operator can feed timber into the saw whilst keeping their hands clear,” said HSE inspector Tony Brookes.

“Guards are necessary as these rollers are equally likely to catch any loose material worn by the operator and drag them into the blade.”