A LEADING polythene manufacturer in Hampshire has been fined thousands of pounds after a worker suffered serious head and leg injuries.

Muhammad Arshad was hospitalised after falling seven metres from a work platform above a factory machine.

The incident, which led to an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive, happened at Siva Plastics in Southampton.

A Health and Safety Executive (HSE) spokesman said: "Mr Arshad was crossing a plank that had been put across a gap in the platform when he fell. Mr Arshad sustained serious head and leg injuries."

The firm, which makes more than 30,000 tonnes of plastic film and bags each year, was fined £8,000 after admitting two breaches of health and safety legislation.

Siva Plastics, which is based at Hazel Road in Woolston, was also ordered to pay £2,258 in costs following the prosecution at Lyndhurst Magistrates' Court in the New Forest.

The firm, described on its website as one of the largest manufacturers of polythene in the UK, issued a statement in the wake of the prosecution.

A spokesman said: "We would like to apologise to Mr Arshad for his injuries. He was back at work three months after the accident and was on full pay while off sick.

"We have since employed outside consultants to oversee our health and safety requirements, and make sure we are up to date with current legislation."

A qualified health and safety officer was also taken on, he added.

HSE inspector Paul Williams said after the hearing: "Falls from height are the most common cause of fatal injuries, and the second most common cause of major injuries to employees and the self-employed.

"This case highlights the need to undertake a thorough assessment of the risks arising from any work at height, and ensure that adequate control measures are in place."

The incident took place on February 18, 2003, according to the HSE.