A male worker at a steel manufacturer based in Spring Gardens, Gainsborough has been seriously injured in a work accident.
The man, who was employed by Wefco (Gainsborough) Ltd, may file for accident compensation following the incident, in which he was struck by a processing tank weighing three tonnes.
As the heavy tank was being lifted up by an overhead crane, its fittings came lose and it became detached from the lifting bracket.
The worker, who lives in Scunthorpe, suffered serious injuries in the accident, including breaking his leg and ankle, plus enduring fractures to his spine, pelvis and ribs. He also suffered a severe injury to his head.
Following the work incident, Wefco (Gainsborough) Ltd admitted failing to ensure the safety of a staff member, and were fined £15,000 plus £5,000 in costs at Lincoln Crown Court.
A Health and Safety (HSE) inspector said, "The serious injuries suffered by the young man could have been even worse. The accident could have been avoided, had the difficult lifting procedure been planned in advance and adequate lifting equipment had been in place."
Wefco's legal team said that the firm had made improvements to its safety procedures and had learnt lessons as a result of the accident.