Fletcher fined over worker injury

12:38 pm on 22 December 2012

Fletcher Construction has been fined $45,000 for failing to ensure the safety of a worker who was seriously injured during demolition of an earthquake-damaged high rise in Christchurch.

The worker fell nearly three metres from a ladder at the site of the city's highest building, the Hotel Grand Chancellor, on 20 January.

The fine was given in the Christchurch District Court on Thursday.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment took the action after it was discovered the ladder was damaged.

Inspectors also discovered damage to a second ladder being used by workers and other health and safety breaches on the site, including not providing enough barriers to prevent people from falling from the 28-storey building.

The ministry says it will continue with an information campaign to ensure safe work practices are maintained during the Christchurch rebuild.