Haider Zaman, 53, trading as Pride Builders, was prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive for ignoring two Improvement Notices while he was refurbishing two residential properties in the Cathays area of the City.

During an unannounced inspection of the two sites on 1 March 2011, HSE inspectors found sub-standard safety measures in relation to working at height, asbestos safety and structural stability and issued three Prohibition Notices ordering Zaman to stop work immediately.

Two Improvement Notices relating to asbestos safety training and health and safety competence training were subsequently served to Zaman.

Cardiff Magistrates’ Court heard the Improvement Notices gave him until 10 May 2011 to make the necessary improvements.

But on returning to the site a week later HSE inspectors found the notices had not been complied with, and identified further sub-standard control measures for working at height.

Zaman, trading as Pride Builders, of 174 Mackintosh Place, Cardiff pleaded guilty to two safety breaches and was fined a total of £1,280 and ordered to pay costs of £1,500.

Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector David Kirkpatrick said: “HSE inspectors take enforcement action where the risks justify the action to ensure that people’s health and safety is not put at risk.

“We cannot tolerate non-compliance with enforcement notices and will prosecute.