TWO demolition contractors have been ordered to pay fines after a worker fell from a roof onto a concrete floor in Suffolk.Judge Peter Thompson, at Ipswich Crown Court said: "It could have easily have caused his death.

TWO demolition contractors have been ordered to pay fines after a worker fell from a roof onto a concrete floor in Suffolk.

Judge Peter Thompson, at Ipswich Crown Court said: "It could have easily have caused his death."

The court heard yesterday that Philip Hill, 48, of Hockering, Norfolk was not even wearing a hard hat when he fell two metres, severely fracturing his leg.

Judge Thompson said: "When he fell he landed on a concrete floor covered with debris. Fortunately he did not die."

Timothy Philpott, 46, of Low Road, Runwell, Norwich was found guilty of breaching a Health and Safety Regulation.

Sub-contractor John Mooney, of Chapel Lane, Hockering admitted the same offence.

The court heard that the accident happened on June 23, 1999 at Hill House Farm, Needham Market, where a demolition contract was being carried out.

The Health and Safety Executive prosecuted Philpott and Mooney because they had failed to ensure a safe working environment for Mr Hill.

Philpott was fined £4,000 and ordered to pay £6,000 towards court costs. Mooney was given credit for his guilty plea, he was found £2,500 and ordered to pay £1,750 towards costs.

Philpott told the court: "There were no short cuts or cost cutting" which may have jeopardised safety.

Mooney said he had employed an experienced foreman, and had expected him to take responsibility for safety.