Safety alert issued on road surface top cutting machines
August 27th 2009

An investigation into a fatal incident involving a top cutting machine, which is used to prepare trenches in roads, has prompted the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to issue a safety alert warning of the dangers of using these machines without proper safety devices.

Last month a worker was fatally injured when he became entangled in the rotating drum of a top cutting machine in Wiltshire.

HSE has issued a safety alert to the construction and utilities industry, warning of the dangers of becoming trapped in a top cutting machine, and to raise awareness of the potential risk.

HSE Inspector, Helena Tinton, says:

"Most machines of this type require a deactivation device which automatically stops the machine when the operator leaves the drivers seat.

"Employers are legally required to ensure that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state and to make sure all safety devices are in working order. Operators should also make sure that the power is disconnected and the machine has come to a standstill before carrying out any maintenance on the cutting wheel.

"We urge those in the construction and utilities industries to check the safety devices on their top cutting machines and to prevent similar incidents occurring."

The joint HSE and Wiltshire police investigation into the death of the worker is ongoing and it would inappropriate to comment further on the case at this stage.

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