The Public Prosecution Service (OM) has imposed a fine of 20,000 euros on a company from Leiderdorp that installs solar panels. During work in 2023, an employee died after a fall. The company failed to take adequate measures to prevent the accident, violating the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
In October 2023, a 60-year-old employee of the installation company was engaged in placing and installing solar panels on a sloped roof of a house in Oosterwijk. The employee fell from the roof and died from his injuries. An investigation by the Dutch Labor Inspectorate (NLA) revealed that the required safety regulations were not observed during the work. For instance, there was no fall protection in place, and the employee was insufficiently secured. The company was legally obligated to ensure that adequate measures were taken to prevent the employee from falling.
The OM believes that a fine of 20,000 euros is an appropriate penalty in this case. The company has accepted its liability for these actions and has ceased its activities in the installation of solar panels.
Importance of Fall Protection
More generally, the OM observes that safety is not always prioritized when installing solar panels. Accidents frequently occur during the placement of solar panels, resulting in serious physical injuries or even fatalities. Employers are required by the Occupational Health and Safety Act to ensure the safety and health of their employees. They must implement policies in this regard and also ensure that these policies are effectively put into practice.
The OM emphasizes the importance of taking preventive measures to prevent such accidents. The installation of collective fall protection, such as RSS edge protection systems and scaffolding, as well as the proper use of personal fall protection, is crucial.