Companies from the construction industry are being invited to give their verdict on a fictitious health and safety prosecution in a mock trial.
The free event is being organised by the West Midlands Working Well Together group, with support from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), the Birmingham Health, Safety & Environment Association and law firm Pinsent Masons. It will take place at the University of Wolverhampton Science Park on Wednesday 17 September.
The trial is to focus on a fictional incident in which an employee of a painting and decorating firm working on a refurbishment project suffers serious injuries falling from height.
The case will be heard by a magistrate and will be prosecuted and defended by qualified legal professionals, and those attending will be asked to decide if the company and its director are guilty or not guilty. Following the verdict, there will be a discussion on the outcome and an opportunity to ask questions.
Amy Kalay, HSE acting principal inspector, described the event as a “real eye opener”, saying it will give a detailed insight into what happens when someone has to answer to the courts because a worker has been injured.
