A WORCESTER bus company is among a number of businesses named and shamed for their accident record.

A Health and Safety Executive report lists a number of Worcestershire firms which have been fined for breaching regulations.

During the period of 1999-2000 there was one death, 507 major injuries and 850 other injuries in the county.

Although the number of accidents at work across the country has fallen, there has been a rise in injuries in Worcestershire.

The HSE said that this new report was necessary to try to reduce the figures further.

"Companies, organisations and individuals must be held accountable for their health and safety performance. Their professional reputation should depend on it," said HSE director general Timothy Walker.

"The convictions are there for everyone to see, including would-be customers, contractors, investors, employees and insurers."

One of the cases investigated by HSE was a fatal accident at Worcester's CrownGate bus station in February 1998.

Driver Stan Walton, aged 56, of Droitwich, died when a 50-seater Midland Red bus ran over him.

Midland Red West was later fined £2,500 after Worcester Crown Court heard the vehicle was not fitted with a reversing alarm.

Earlier this year, Construct-It Services Limited, of Callow End, was fined £15,000 after a trench collapsed in the village, nearly killing a workman.

Nick O'Neill had to have his spleen removed after the accident in Beauchamp Lane in July 1999.

The 30-year-old also suffered punctures to both his lungs and broke numerous ribs after the accident, which happened as he laid drains for a barn conversion.

Also featured in the report is Worcester plumber Martin Baker, who was fined £2,500 for breaching gas safety regulations, which resulted in the 14-year-old son of an employee being overcome by fumes at the workplace.

An HSE investigation revealed that the flue was not to the correct standard.

"I want this report to create pressure to improve on those who have failed in their responsibilities towards workers and the general public," said Mr Walker.

"I also hope it will deter others, who will not want to be named in this way."

Anyone who wants to find out more detailed information about convicted companies can write to the HSE's Information Centre in Broad Lane, Sheffield S3 7HQ, or call 08701 545500.

Full details of convictions made by the HSE can also be found at www.hse-data bases.co.uk/prosecutions/