Stoneforce Ltd, of Hertfordshire, was the main contractor hired to carry out work on the refurbishment of a new retail store in Northumberland Street in September 2011.

Newcastle Magistrates’ Court heard that an HSE inspector advised Stoneforce of its legal obligations managing the site following a string of complaints including allegations of risks relating to falls from height and concerns about poor housekeeping and a lack of welfare facilities.

A further inspection found several safety failings and a Prohibition Notice was served relating to a risk of falls from height from the edge of the roof.

A number of Improvement Notices were also served relating to a lack of sufficient welfare facilities and for failing to keep the site in good order.

HSE finall brought a prosecution and Stoneforce of Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, was fined a total of £10,000  after it pleaded guilty to five safety breaches.

The company was also ordered to pay £5,195.70 costs.

After the hearing HSE Inspector Andrea Robbins said: “Numerous failings were found on this site, including serious risks from falls from height that could have resulted in major injuries or even death.

“There was also a lack of suitable and sufficient welfare facilities on the site, with the only sanitary provision being four portable toilets, which were not well lit and were not kept in a clean and orderly condition.

“There were also no suitable washing facilities in the toilet area. Such facilities are a basic human right.”