A shocking incident at a Merthyr Tydfil meat processing plant has led to serious allegations against Kepak Group Limited. Worker Liam Haydon suffered a traumatic accident when his arm got caught in a machine, leading to its amputation. Liam, who began his tenure at the factory in 2019, was cleaning the ‘Speco Solids-Liquids Separation’ machine when his nightmare unfolded.
On February 16, 2021, while attempting to dislodge some meat from the machine, it unexpectedly powered on. The screw conveyer began pulling his arm further in, and the only way to free him was through amputation. In court, Liam admitted he might have turned the machine on, but due to the tank’s level of “gunk,” he wasn’t sure if it was moving. The guard had been unlocked, but whether he powered the machine was a blur to him.
A written statement from day engineer Leopoldo Pinero, who sadly passed away months later, highlighted that on the accident day, no faults were found with the machine and the safety locks were in place. Liam agreed that Pinero could have turned the machine off and that he possibly re-activated it.
John Evans, another employee in the hygiene department, shed light on the safety practices. He admitted machines should be locked off before cleaning. On that day, he was nearby and initially dismissed Liam’s cries as minor until a loud bang signalled something was wrong. He acted swiftly to stop the machine and notify supervisors.
The court is scrutinising whether Kepak Group failed to protect its workers in maintaining and operating the machine safely. The trial continues as more details unravel about the company’s safety protocols and responsibilities.
Stay tuned for updates!