Lobinstown company fined €150,000 after workplace accident

A fine of €150,000 was imposed by Judge John Martin on Meade Potato Company Unlimited at Trim Circuit Court today following a serious work-related incident which occurred at the company’s Lobinstown premises on 30th June 2022.

The victim became trapped after his right arm was drawn into the brush rollers of a Haith Root Veg Polishing Machine while he was carrying out his duties. The victim sustained life-changing injuries as a result of the incident.

Meade Potato Company Unlimited had earlier pleaded guilty to two charges in breach of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.

The company pleaded guilty to Section 8(2)(a) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, as it relates to Section 8(1), contrary to Section 77(9)(a), in that it failed to manage and conduct work activities in such a way as to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of an employee at work.

The company also pleaded guilty to Section 8(2)(e) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, as it relates to Section 8(1), contrary to Section 77(9)(a), in that it failed to provide systems of work that were planned, organised, performed, maintained and revised in such a way as to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare of its employees.

Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Authority, Mark Cullen, said, “Employers must ensure that work activities, particularly those involving machinery with moving parts, are managed and overseen with robust safety measures in place. Properly planned and maintained systems of work are essential in preventing serious injuries. This case highlights the consequences when these fundamental protections are not in place.”

Meade Farm is a family agri-business based in Lobinstown which began as a small potato producer and now grows, packs and distributes fruit and vegetables to retailers nationwide.

Meade Farm has been approached for comment.