Norbord Europe, one of the world’s largest chipboard manufacturers, was found guilty of two health and safety breaches at its factory in Cowie, Stirlingshire, in a unanimous verdict by a Perth sheriff court in early November. In July 2016, managers had asked George Laird, 64, to clear hot ash from a gas pipe above a wood dryer along with several other colleagues using a high-pressure hose. Laird was standing under the pipe and was engulfed in hot water, steam and ash, suffering burns to 90% of his body. He died in hospital the next day. The Crown Office (COPFS), Scotland’s prosecuting authority, said an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive revealed a catalog of failings at the factory and that Norbord failed to provide a safe environment for workers tasked with cleaning the machinery. “Workers were left to devise their own working methods,” COPFS said. “Employees have been at risk of personal injury from ash falling into the combustion chamber since it was installed on site on October 1, 2014. There have been several near misses involving other employees working during that time.” It was announced on Thursday that Norbord Europe had been fined £2.15m. Debbie Carroll, head of the Crown Office’s health and safety investigation unit, said: “George Laird’s tragic death could have been prevented if appropriate and adequate measures had been taken. “The prosecution and sentence serve to highlight that failure to meet health and safety obligations can have tragic consequences and those responsible will be held to account for their failings. Our thoughts are with Mr Laird’s family at this difficult time.” Norbord Europe, previously owned through an offshore company in Luxembourg, ultimately owned by Canadian conglomerate Norbord Inc, is now owned by West Fraser following a deal completed in early 2021. West Fraser, which says on its website that it prioritizes health and safety, has been contacted for comment on the case. Garry Miller, HSE inspector, said: “Work inspectors have a responsibility to establish safe working methods and provide the necessary information, guidance and training. [If] had an appropriate safe system of work been in place prior to the incident, Mr Laird’s death could have been prevented.’
