Schools have been reminded of their health and safety responsibilities after a lab technician lost part of three fingers while he was putting together a pyrotechnics demonstration.

The technician, who has since retired, was hospitalised for 12 days after the incident at Bristol Cathedral Choir School in October 2014. As well as losing the top half of his ring, middle and index fingers, he also suffered a ruptured bowel.

Prosecuting the case, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) told Bristol Magistrates’ Court that since 2009, similar demonstrations had taken place in the school a number of times each year.

Gunpowder and flash powder were both kept in a chemistry storeroom.

Inspectors said the accident would not have happened if clear management arrangements controlling and reviewing risks posed by chemicals used in lessons had been implemented by the school.

The school, of College Square, Bristol, pleaded guilty to failing to ensure the health and safety of its employees as it had a duty to do under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and was fined £8,000.

A further fine of £18,000 was imposed after the school admitted a second charge of failing to ensure pupils were not exposed to health and safety risks.

The school must also pay £12,176 in costs.

“Schools need to have clear health and safety arrangements in place for their staff and students,” said HSE inspector Susan Chivers.

“They should set up adequate control systems and ensure that these arrangements are clearly understood and adhered to.

They should also follow recognised guidance provided by CLEAPSS and similar organisations regarding the control of risks to health and safety in practical science work.”