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Chemical spill led to painful slip

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An Alcan Aluminium employee needed knee surgery after slipping on a chemical that had leaked onto a workshop floor. The GMB member from Newbiggin by the Sea was repairing a large crucible pot used at the now mothballed factory, which made aluminium products at the site in Lynemouth, Northumberland. He had been using a forklift truck when he stepped on residue created during the manufacturing process. This shattered under his weight causing him to lose his footing and twist his knee awkwardly, tearing a cartilage. The worker, whose name hasn't been released, needed surgery and an intensive course of physiotherapy to correct the damage. He was unable to work for six weeks. When his employer denied liability, solicitors brought in by the union issued court proceedings which led to a substantial out of court settlement. GMB Northern regional organiser Valerie Scott said: 'Cutting corners is not an option where the safety of workers is concerned. We stepped in to support our member in his case and hope that by recognising where its health and safety procedures had not been adequate the employer will also benefit as a result. Our message to employers? Implement proper safety measures and keep them in place.'

Thompsons Solicitors news release.

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