A Trafford-based lorry trailer building company has been prosecuted after a worker was crushed by more than two tonnes of metal.
S Cartwright and Sons (Coachbuilders) was fined £15,000 and ordered to pay a further £18,315 in costs following a hearing at Manchester Crown Court.
It heard that David Jones was helping to move a stack of metal strips onto a trailer in March 2008 when the load and lifting beam, weighing a total of 2.2 tonnes, fell onto him.
He broke his back in four places, along with 12 ribs and a shoulder blade, while also suffering bruising to his heart and stomach injuries.
Richard Clarke, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspector, said: "Manufacturing companies can be dangerous places to work if the risks are not properly managed. It’s vital that good health and safety measures are put in place to prevent workers from being injured."
Recently, the HSE made public liability insurance holders aware of its load safety campaign, which offers advice on how firms can carry out best practice to avoid any injuries and deaths in the workplace.