A MAN lost sight in one eye after a nail he was hammering into a packing crate rebounded.

The Monmouth firm he was working for have been fined almost £15,000 after the accident which happened in February.

An investigation by Monmouthshire council found that Mandarin Stone had failed to provide eye protection to its workers as well as failing to assess the risks associated with packing crates of stone.

After an investigation, improvement notices were served following an investigation and the company has since brought in a safer system of work including the provision of protective eye wear.

At a hearing at Newport Magistrates Court on Friday, stone merchant Mandarin Slate Ltd trading as Mandarin Stone of Wonastow Industrial Estate, Monmouth was ordered to pay the maximum fine of £20,000 plus full costs of £2,860 after pleading guilty to an offence under Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

A Mandarin Stone spokeswoman said they have co-operated fully with the local authority throughout their investigations and have since carried out an intensive review of their operations and procedures to make sure all safety risks are mitigated.

She said: “We’re devastated that a Mandarin employee was injured whilst working for the company and have done everything we can to support him in his recovery.

“As a family business, we’re committed to looking after our employees and I’m delighted that he has decided to remain with the company in a newly-created role following the accident.’’

She added: “Revised procedures are in place and Mandarin Stone are committed to ensuring all employees continue to receive the training and support they need to ensure such an accident can never happen again.”