UPM Shotton workers hold minutes silence

A MINUTE'S silence was held at UPM Shotton today in memory of a contractor who died following an accident involving a lorry at the north Wales newsprint manufacturing plant on Monday morning.

The entire UPM Shotton workforce at the Deeside plant joined together at their weekly safety talk to observe the minute's silence at 12.45pm. They were joined by employees throughout the Shotton group as well as employees from a wide number of companies across the UK.

Mr Austin Thomas, a contractor working for transport company Downton, was fatally injured when he was struck by a bucket loader in the recovered paper warehouse at UPM Shotton on Monday.

"We have had many individuals and companies, from within the UK paper industry and beyond, who have made contact with us to express condolences to the bereaved and solidarity with all employees who have been affacted by the tragic accident," said UPM Shotton general manager David Ingham.

"Both UPM and Downton have provided full access to their respective occupational health teams, which will offer counselling to those affected if required," he added.

The mill and warehouse were closed on Monday night until Tuesday morning as a mark of respect to Mr Thomas's family and colleagues.

North Wales Police were called to the scene and the driver of the bucket loader was arrested and later released without charge. Investigation of the incident was handed to the Health and Safety Executive by North Wales Police on Tuesday.

In a statement this week, UPM Shotton said: "UPM and Downtown, who are contracted to provide warehouse services for UPM Shotton, have now fully reviewed all procedures following the incident. The Health and Safety Executive have also been consulted and have approved these.

"UPM Shotton will continue to work closely with all parties to identify the cause of the incident."