Pemberton Timber Frame Ltd, based in Kent, has been fined and ordered to pay costs following an avoidable injury to one of its workers.

The company manufactures timber frame structures for the construction industry. One of its workers was operating a panel saw and was asked to perform a rip cut on a length of timber, meaning he needed to cut down its thickness. This required him to pass the timber through the panel saw multiple times because the timber was too thick for the blade to cut in a single pass.

He successfully completed the first cut, but on the second attempt, his right hand made contact with the blade, resulting in three fingers being instantly amputated.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that the employee had been asked to perform a task unsuitable for the machine he was using, and that he had not received adequate training or instruction on how to safely use the panel saw.

Even more concerning, the HSE discovered that the company did have appropriate machines available that could have safely carried out the task, but the employee was unaware of this due to his lack of training.

The HSE provides clear guidance on the safe use of panel saws for rip cuts. A panel saw with a circular blade must not be used unless the saw blade projects through the upper surface of the material being cut at all times.

Ross Carter, the principal inspector for HSE, stated: “Those in control of work have a responsibility to devise safe methods of working and to provide the necessary information, instruction, and training to their workers.”

This case serves as an important reminder of the need to implement safe systems of work for all tasks.

See more: https://press.hse.gov.uk/2025/01/15/fine-for-kent-timber-firm-after-worker-loses-three-fingers