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ScottishPower has been fined after a worker received serious injuries when he opened a faulty valve at Longannet Power Station in Alloa.
ScottishPower Generation Limited (SPGL), of Atlantic Quay, Robertson Street, Glasgow pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. It was fined £1.75 million.
Dunfermline Sheriff Court heard how a plant controller working for the company was injured when he opened a faulty valve which emitted high pressure, high temperature steam on 12 October 2013.
His injuries included serious scalding burns to his chest and legs.
A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found SPGL were aware of the defect but did not ensure appropriate steps where taken to either repair or remove the valve from use.
HSE principal inspector Fiona MacNeill said: "The plant controller suffered severe and life changing injuries. This case has highlighted the importance for every employer of ensuring that systems are in place for maintaining work equipment in a safe condition, efficient working order and in good repair."
(LM)
