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Vasilis Paraskeva and his London-based company, VNP Constructions Limited, were the appointed contractor for the conversion of a former public house and adjoining building into residential flats on White Lion Street, London.
During a proactive HSE visit to the site on 1 September 2022 inspectors identified several issues including work at height risks and concerns about the competence of site management. Prohibition and Improvement notices were served.
Further visits over the following 12 months identified additional breaches, demonstrating a continued failure to suitably plan, manage and monitor the work. Additional Prohibition and Improvement notices were served.
An HSE investigation found that Vasilis Paraskeva and VNP Constructions Limited failed to comply with the requirements of multiple enforcement notices and failed to ensure work was carried out safely.
VNP Constructions Limited, of Winchmore Hill, London, pleaded guilty to breaching safety regulations and was fined £7,200 and ordered to pay £900 in costs at the same hearing.
Director, Vasilis Paraskeva, of Winchmore Hill, London, also pleaded guilty and was fined £10,800 and ordered to pay £900 in costs at Snaresbrook Crown Court.
Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Andrew Pipe said: “These fines should send a clear message to the construction industry that HSE and the courts take failure to comply with enforcement notices extremely seriously.
“HSE will not hesitate to take action against companies and individuals who fail to keep people safe.”