Green Facades Limited had been contracted to remove the potentially dangerous aluminium composite panels and combustible insulation material from the building ‘The Circle’. 

When an inspector from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) first visited the site on 10th January 2022, the inspection revealed that — in preparation for the removal work — combustible material had been left exposed, and there were inadequate means of escaping from the scaffold which was being erected.

The situation had worsened when the inspector returned on 21st January 2022.

Further combustible material had been exposed with no protection from potential sources of ignition, and combustible cladding material was found lying on residents’ balconies.

As the building remained occupied during the works, the inspector alerted Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service who took their own enforcement action.

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An investigation by HSE found that Green Facades Limited had failed to take appropriate precautions to address the risk of fire and to ensure the safety of residents, workers, and others.

The company pleaded guilty to breaching regulations 11(1) and 13(1) of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.

At Liverpool Magistrates’ Court, the company was fined £240,000 and ordered to pay costs of £5,405.

After the hearing, HSE inspector Jackie Western, said: “The disturbing irony of this case is that work to protect residents from fire risk ended up making the situation more dangerous.

“This prosecution highlights the need for responsible management of the removal of cladding.

“The potentially tragic consequences of fire involving this type of material are well known following the Grenfell Tower fire.

“Despite earlier interventions and advice from HSE, and the availability of a wealth of guidance from HSE and others, this company continued to fail in its duty to address the risk of fire, putting people’s lives at risk.”

The prosecution was supported by HSE lawyer Matthew Reynolds.