Owners of a gym have been fined more than £60,000 after members and staff were exposed to toxic chemicals.
People using Gold’s Gym (UK) in Uxbridge Road, Hanwell, complained to Ealing Council after smelling a strong chemical smell coming from the building.
A number of members also reported feeling unwell with headaches and feeling sick days after spending time in the gym.
Council inspectors discovered the smell was coming from a chemical called Polycor, used by builders renovating the gym in 2013.
Tubs of Polycor ISO BR 9199 were found, which is harmful when inhaled and irritating to the eyes and skin on contact.
Mr Kawaljit Singh Sandhu, company director, pleaded guilty during a hearing at Ealing Magistrates’ Court.
Duplicate charges were bought against the company and Sandhu under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
Gold’s Gym (UK) was fined £32,500, with a £120 victim surcharge, while Sandhu was ordered to pay £17,500 plus a £120 victim surcharge. Ealing Council was also awarded £12,603.50 towards court costs.
Councillor Julian Bell, leader of Ealing Council, said: “The club showed no regard for their members or staff and the fines clearly reflect this.
“They put them at risk of serious ill-health. We are pleased with the court’s decision and hope it sends a clear message to businesses that we will not tolerate anyone endangering residents.”
