Safety chiefs halted work at one of the north-east’s biggest food factories after a man became trapped in a machine, the Press and Journal can reveal.
The Health and Safety Executive stopped production at part of Baxters food processing plant at Fochabers after the worker was seriously injured.
The 22-year-old was airlifted to Raigmore Hospital in Inverness after he was cut free by the fire and rescue service.
Police and the HSE launched an investigation into the accident, and last night it emerged that inspectors had issued the food company with a prohibition notice – one of its most serious sanctions.
Details of the punishment – which stops work – have now been made public for the first time.
It accuses Baxters of exposing its workers to “danger” because the intake end of the machine was not guarded and there was no means of keeping people out.
The HSE ruled that bosses had not taken any preventative measures to ensure the safety of staff and that people could have become trapped in the conveyor.
Last night, a spokesman for the company said that every possible precaution had been take to ensure the safety of workers before the accident, which happened on January 30.
He said a letter had been sent to the HSE, detailing what action had been taken to comply with the notice.
It is understood that the worker is due back at work after several weeks of recovery.
Local councillor Sean Morton said the outcome could have been much worse and important lessons must be learned.
“This should have never happened in the first place,” he said. “Safety in the workplace should always be a priority.
“However, I am pleased Baxters have taken every precaution possible to ensure something like this never happens again, so it can continue to provide a safe environment for its employees.”
Baxters, now an international brand, began as a grocer’s shop at Fochabers in 1868. Founders George and Margaret Baxter became known for making jams and jellies with fruit from the area. Today it is famous for its soups, sauces and other produce.
The company is the biggest private-sector employer in Moray.
It also has sites throughout the UK and food manufacturing operations in Canada, Australia and Poland.