Three construction firms have been ordered to fork out over £400,000 after serious safety failures caused a worker to lose a limb.

The highly-experienced 53-year-old worker had to have his arm amputated after a machinery incident and he has not been able to return to work since.

Amey LG Ltd, of Sherard Building, Edmund Halley Road, Oxford, Lafarge Aggregates Ltd of Portland House, Bickenhill Lane, Solihull, Birmingham and Ashmac Construction Ltd of Pavillion Court, Pavilion Drive, Northampton, were all prosecuted at Watford Magistates’ Court following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive.

Following the case, HSE Inspector Gavin Bull, said: “This tragic incident has left a worker with life-changing injuries. It was wholly avoidable. The risks associated with plant operating are well-known in the industry.

“This incident highlights the need for workers to receive the information, instruction and training they need to operate plant safely and for companies to put in place measures to ensure the plant is operated safely on site.”

The investigation found a series of safety failings from all three firms and the HSE also found out that the worker was not formally trained in the use of the machine, while his colleagues were only given one evening to learn about the equipment.

All three firms pleaded guilty and Amey LG Ltd was fined, £150,015, Larfarge Aggregates Ltd was fined £175,015 while Ashmac Construction was ordered to pay £30,015.

The firms also had to pay £18,000 each in costs.