On 1st August Leeds Magistrates Court heard how the member of the public, whilst attending a function at the hotel, leaned on the doors which gave way allowing her to fall down the stone cellar stairs immediately behind them. The stairs were steep, curved and worn due to lack of maintenance.
An investigation by Ryedale District Council revealed that Warmest Welcome Ltd failed to ensure that the cellar doors were adequately secured, failed to produce an adequate risk assessment and failed to take reasonably practicable steps to prevent members of the public gaining access to the cellar. In addition, the company failed to maintain the cellar stairs in good condition.
Warmest Welcome Ltd pleaded guilty to two charges namely breaching Section 2(1) and Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £13,000 with £9,000 costs and a victim surcharge of £120. The financial penalty totalled £22,120.
Councillor Linda Cowling, Leader of Ryedale District Council, said: “Given the serious nature of this case, it was important that the prosecution took place. The Council will take a firm stand against anyone failing in their duties in relation to health and safety.”