12.06.2019

£351k + for loader crane fatality

The UK’s National Grid has been fined £334,000 plus costs following a loader crane fatality.

The incident occurred in East Claydon, near Milton Keynes in November 2016, a substation employee Paul Marsden and a co-worker set out to move a crated compressor, using a loader crane. Marsden was using the crane’s remote controller, and while he and his colleague were attaching the slings he operated the crane but struck him in the head, resulting in an injury that proved fatal.
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The crane and the packing case involved

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive found that National Grid failed to ensure the lift was properly planned, effectively supervised and carried out safely. It had also failed to ensure that Marsden had received adequate training on how to operate the new loader crane, and in particular the additional risks that can arise when using the remote controls. The court issued a fine of £334,000 plus £17, 673.34 costs, and a victim surcharge of £170.

HSE inspector Stephen Faulkner said: “This tragic incident could have been avoided if the company had properly planned the movement of the crate involved.
Employers must recognise operating remote controlled equipment carries its own risks and should be managed appropriately, including through providing adequate training for employees. Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”