Trainee mechanic dismissed for ignoring safety instructions

Tribunal upholds sacking, citing paramount importance of following procedures.

Trainee mechanic dismissed for ignoring safety instructions

A trainee mechanic was dismissed for refusing to follow safety instructions, telling a senior colleague “I know best.” An employment tribunal ruled the dismissal was justified, rejecting the trainee’s claim that his actions stemmed from dyslexia coping mechanisms.

Connor Dolan, who began training in September 2023, argued that his behaviour was a result of his dyslexia, which led him to use methods like reading aloud, verbalising tasks, and consulting online resources. However, the tribunal concluded that his employer, Prestwick Aircraft Management, had no choice but to terminate his employment due to safety concerns.

The tribunal in Glasgow heard that Mr. Dolan was on a 16-week training course. Ten days into his training, he disclosed his dyslexia to his supervisors. Incidents soon followed, including interrupting a safety briefing and refusing to follow instructions during practical tool training.

Alan Sharp, an experienced mechanic, reported that Mr. Dolan argued when corrected, claiming he “knew best.” This led to his dismissal three days later by lead trainer Andrew Hood, who cited Mr. Dolan’s refusal to adhere to procedures and instructions.

Mr. Dolan claimed his dismissal was discriminatory, attributing his behaviour to dyslexia. However, Employment Judge Jacqueline McCluskey ruled that following instructions was “critical” for safety. She found that Mr. Dolan was “unwilling or unable” to follow directions, leaving dismissal as the “only option.”

Judge McCluskey emphasised the importance of safety in the workplace, stating that employees were required to follow safety briefings without interruption. She concluded that Mr. Hood acted “rationally and responsibly” in dismissing Mr. Dolan.

The tribunal’s decision highlights the importance of apprentices adhering to safety protocols when it comes to training environments, and underscores that while employers must accommodate for disabilities, this can’t compromise safety standards.

Have you ever had to deal with a safety incident like this that could have put an apprentice or another member of staff at risk? Let us know in the comments.

5 Comments

  1. I think in today’s world it appears that quite a few people have some disorder. In my world of cars I actually have 3 members of staff with dyslexia . The good news is they told me so we can work with them to ensure no issues. You can’t give them a book and say read it , so we work on verbal / video for learning.
    I do think employers have the right to ask the question as proven in this case it simply will not work with the type of job. It’s not discrimination it’s safety not just of them but colleagues around. We work on things that require skill and care as they are a death trap if we make a mistake.
    Glad common sense here over the Woke brigade citing discrimination . This is pure and simple not fit for the job even if that is to do with the problem. Simples as they say .

    Reply
  2. we have had over 20 apprentices over the years
    sadly the last 5 years they have all been bloodly useless experts

    Reply
  3. We employed a guy who was colour blind. This could have been a problem when it came to reading wiring diagrams etc. He’s been a mechanic for over 40 years now without any issues and is a valued member of staff.

    Reply
  4. Learning difficulties and mental issues are a way of life now but can be worked into a persons work day once the company expectations are agreed upfront and achieved personally. And that person’s performance is reviewed monthly. But when the attitude is wrong – they are not the right fit no matter how good they are or how much pressure you are to get employees. That chap has to go or bigger troubles will arise…imo.

    Reply
  5. He Knows Best, Sounds Like A Case of Care in The Community To Me

    Reply

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