HSE prosecution highlights the need for regulation compliant staircases

A Sheffield based builder has been fined £5,000 and ordered to pay £4,000 in costs following a serious accident on timber staircase installation, reports the Construction Enquirer.

Michael Hall fell from the top of a new staircase that had been left without a handrail by local builder Robin Atherton, trading as Mack Construction, during refurbishment work at his home.

He suffered a broken spine, massive head injuries and several broken ribs in the incident on June 23 2010. He was in intensive care and spent several months in hospital undergoing numerous operations.

Following the accident, the HSE undertook an investigation and successfully prosecuted Mr Atherton.

Mr Hall, who ran his own car business, has had to learn to walk again and talk properly again after a tracheotomy affected his speech. He still suffers balance problems but has made around a 90% recovery.

Iain McIlwee, BWF Chief Executive, said “this case highlights the importance of manufacturing and installing safe and regulation compliant timber staircases. Through the BWF Stair Scheme we promote the importance of using compliant stairs within dwellings and having an audit trail to ensure and easily identify a quality and compliant staircase”.

The BWF Stair Scheme provides a badging system that allows homeowners, building control and other relevant parties to easily identify a compliant staircase for domestic, common domestic and fire-rated common stair uses. The BWF website provides more information on the Stair Scheme and how to find an accredited manufacturer.