Firefighters cut worker from machine

James Harrison had been operating the machine at Hobbs the Printers in Totton when his hand disappeared into the printer.

The 21-year-old’s right hand was trapped inside the machine for more than 90 minutes as staff and emergency services raced against time to free it.

Firefighters had to cut the machine apart using hydraulic cutters and an electric saw while doctors sedated Mr Harrison with powerful pain killers.

Fifteen firefighters from Redbridge Hill, Totton and St Mary’s fire stations were called to the printing company shortly before 11am after staff raised the alarm. Redbridge station manager Mickey Smither said: “The victim’s arm was being crushed in the printing machine between two rollers.

“We used hydraulic cutters, an electric saw and crowbars to dismantle the machine with the help of the staff.

“He was in a great deal of pain and it could have been a lot worse if it wasn’t for the quick actions of the staff turning off the power to the machine.”

Basics doctor Stephen Smallwood was also called from his GP surgery in Wickham to help.

Dr Smallwood said: “When I arrived he had been trapped for over an hour.

“His hand had been crushed in the machine and there was no bloodflow to it.

“The concern was that if we didn’t get his hand out quickly he could lose it.”

However, he added that when the man’s limb was released the signs of recovery were encouraging.

Mr Harrison was finally freed at around 12.30pm after more than 90 minutes with his hand trapped inside the machine.

He was taken by ambulance to Southampton General Hospital where last night he was said to be recovering.

David Hobbs, managing director of Hobbs the Printers, said the company’s directors would be visiting Mr Harrison in hospital at the earliest opportunity.

He added: “Naturally the management and staff wish our colleague a speedy recovery.”

It is understood the Health and Safety Executive are now investigating the incident.