Wates fined for carbon monoxide risk

Prosecutions and Claims |
29.07.2008

Construction firm Wates has admitted breaching safety legislation by exposing bungalow residents in Birmingham to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Wates, the principal contractor on the project, was prosecuted following roofing works carried out by a subcontractor in Rednal Road between June and September 2006.

In 11 properties the work disrupted the integrity of warm air flues, which vent through roof ridge terminals, potentially causing a build-up of carbon monoxide in the loft.

Wates failed to check the flues after the roof work was finished, despite a warning from another CORGI-registered subcontractor.

Wates of Leatherhead, Surrey, admitted breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act by failing to ensure the health and safety of non-employees.

On 18 July, Birmingham magistrates fined the company £7000 plus £2491.