HSE Fines Firm £50k After First‑Floor Collapse in London
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recently fined a London-based firm £50,000 following a serious collapse at a domestic development in Hampstead. Four workers were injured—two seriously—when a partially built beam-and-block floor gave way during remedial operations .
The incident occurred as an oxy-acetylene torch was used on a structural steel beam while Acrow props were concurrently removed, leading to catastrophic failure. HSE determined that the company failed to manage temporary works properly under CDM Regulation 19(1), neglecting to implement essential precautions against collapse during weak structural conditions .
Why Managing Temporary Works Is Vital
Construction projects often involve temporary structural supports whose failure can have severe consequences. CDM 2015 requires dutyholders to ensure:
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Temporary works are thoroughly planned, inspected, and approved
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Supervision is in place whenever these systems are modified
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Appropriate documentation and control measures are maintained
Neglecting these requirements puts workers and project stability at unacceptable risk.
How All Star Safety Supports Safe Temporary Works
At All Star Safety, we provide a comprehensive assurance package designed to safeguard temporary works and uphold regulatory compliance:
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We scrutinise temporary works planning, highlight deficiencies in support systems, and advise on robust documentation and supervision protocols.
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All Star Safety Certification & Toolbox Talks
On-site sessions refresh teams on temporary works awareness, hazard identification, and correct sequence of dismantling or modification.
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Site Supervision and Management NVQs include modules on risk management, temporary works oversight, and CDM-related legal requirements.
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NPORS Plant & Supervisor Training
Focused training on lifting, supporting, and propping operations ensures competence during structural changes.
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Emergency and First Aid at Work courses arm operatives with the skills to respond swiftly to incidents arising from structural failures.
Taking Action to Prevent Collapse
To protect your workforce and maintain regulatory compliance:
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Audit all temporary works plans and schedules.
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Assign clear responsibility for supervision and routine checks.
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Train staff on CDM and best practices for temporary structure control.
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Engage a specialist audit from All Star Safety to reinforce systems and culture.
Effective coordination, training, and oversight are essential to avoid tragedies and costly prosecutions.
Contact us to see how we can assist you in staying safe and compliant.
📞 0330 133 0402
📞 01473 561 402
📩 info@allstarsafety.co.uk