AWE Aldermaston has appeared in court to face health and safety charges over a fire which resulted in a Basingstoke man suffering burns injuries.
The charges relate to a fire in an explosives bunker at the atomic weapons establishment on August 3, 2010, which caused burns to the face and arm of 29-year-old employee Ashley Emery, from Basingstoke.
The fire also resulted in the evacuation of nearby residents from their homes to hotels in Aldermaston and Basingstoke.
AWE plc appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Thursday to face three charges.
The charges involve failing to ensure the health, safety and welfare at work of all employees, failing to provide suitable personal protective equipment and failing to take appropriate measures to limit the extent of fire or explosion.
James Maxwell-Scott, representing AWE plc, said the company would not enter pleas at this stage.
District Judge Lynne Matthews said the case, brought by the Health and Safety Executive, will next be heard at Reading Crown Court on March 11, for plea and case management.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article