Firm Fined After Wall Collapse and Safety Failures on Manchester Build
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) swooped on a Fallowfield building site after an exterior wall crashed down during work by Servotec Ltd. The initial visit on 22 September 2020 uncovered serious dangers, triggering swift enforcement action.
Multiple Notices as Site Safety Found Lacking
- HSE slapped Servotec with a Prohibition Notice for an unstable roof and failure to provide essential temporary works design (TWD).
- Improvement Notices followed over poor site welfare and an inadequate asbestos survey — a hot topic given HSE’s new asbestos safety campaign.
- A return visit on 25 September spotted another structural hazard, leading to a second Prohibition Notice.
The company complied with the enforcement orders but dragged its feet over giving details about the initial collapse. When HSE revisited on 10 February 2021, they found more breaches — including poor control of deadly silica dust during tile cutting. This resulted in fresh Prohibition and Improvement Notices.
Shoddy Safety Culture Costs Company and Director
HSE’s investigation revealed systemic risks from start to finish, from structural safety to welfare standards. Servotec’s director, Shaun Brae, was repeatedly confronted with the breaches and displayed a “persistent poor attitude” and lack of accountability. He too was found to have failed in his legal duties.
Servotec Limited, based in Chorlton Cum Hardy, pleaded guilty to multiple breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. The company was fined £5,000 at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on 10 March 2023.
Shaun Brae, of Ashford, Kent, also pleaded guilty and was fined £1,000 plus £2,000 in costs.
HSE Vows Tough Action on Reckless Builders
“This was a very serious incident, and it is fortunate nobody was injured as a result of the collapse or any of the subsequent failings,” said HSE inspector Mike Lisle.
“Where contractors demonstrate persistent poor health and safety and ignore Notices served, HSE will not hesitate to take necessary action. Directing minds playing a significant role in a company’s failings will also be held accountable, as was the case here.”
Servotec’s case highlights the crucial need for builders to follow safety rules to the letter — or face hefty fines and serious legal consequences.
