The member of public was placed in an induced coma after falling from an unguarded loading bay platform onto a concrete parking bay at the Crafty Casks Taproom, in Rayleigh, in 2022.
Sustaining severe head injuries, the individual required emergency surgery, but has since made a strong recovery.
The incident was reported to Rochford District Council from the business and, upon inspection of the micropub, the council says a range of safety failings were identified.
This included multiple safety issues, including the lack of a guard rail on the platform, poor lighting, slipping hazards from ice, and inadequate risk assessments for platform use and manual handling.
After the investigation, the business took action to address the concerns raised and has put in place the essential safety measures but given the severity of the incident and evidence collected, the council pursued prosecution.
Crafty Casks Pubs Limited admitted to two charges under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 relating to public and employee safety at Southend Magistrates’ Court on November 15.
The judge acknowledged the severity of the failings and initially imposed a fine of £40,000, however after considering the company’s guilty plea and financial position, the fine was reduced to £20,000.
The firm was also ordered to pay £13,000 in costs and a £2,000 victim surcharge.
Lisa Newport, chair of the community, wellbeing and housing committee at Rochford District Council, said: “This case highlights the importance of businesses taking their health and safety responsibilities seriously.
“The safety of employees and the public should always come first. While we are pleased that the business has since made improvements, this prosecution sends a strong message; failures that put people at risk will not be tolerated.
“Rochford District Council remains dedicated to enforcing health and safety regulations to keep residents and visitors safe.”