Woodworking company fined following death caused by collision

Woodworking company fined following death caused by collision when struck by a wheel loader.

On 29 April 2019, Thomas Brooke walks across the yard at John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited in Nottingham. A wheel loader, with bucket raised, moves the shovel forward and collides with Tom who died from his injuries.

Death of collision – affect on family 

Tragically, Tom was working for the family company. At the time of the incident, Tom’s son Rupert was aged four. His wife, Jessica described Tom as a kind, caring person, dedicated to his family and loved by everyone who knows him.

In a statement, she said: “Our hearts are broken. The pain and suffering of his loss is immense, no words can describe the impact his loss is having. Our lives have changed forever.

“Being partners in crime, soulmates and best friends, we took on whatever challenges life threw in our direction.”

Tom had a special relationship with Rupert, who is now nine. Jessica said: “From the moment that Rupert was born Tom was a natural father and Rupert and Tom had a very special bond. They were as thick as thieves, both being at their happiest when in the other’s company. Tom was a brilliant role model to Rupert in every respect; he was Rupert’s favourite person in the whole world. Rupert couldn’t have wished for a better father.”

“I grieve the future that we will never have but also, and particularly, that Tom will never see Rupert’s future.”

Woodworking company fined after investigation finds no control measures

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited did not properly organise its workplace to keep pedestrians safe.

There were no control measures, such as physical barriers, to prevent pedestrians accessing areas where loading shovels, lorries, forklift trucks and 360 grabs operated. It therefore, failed to properly assess the risks from operating machinery with reduced visibility and did not properly train, instruct and monitor employees. as a result, an employee has been killed when struck by the wheel loader, resulting in the woodworking company being fined.

Every workplace must be safe for the people and vehicles using it and traffic routes must be suitable for the people and vehicles using them.

Tip: HSE has guidance on workplace transport with advice on keeping traffic routes safe and separating people from vehicles.

On 20 August 2024, John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited Nottingham, pleaded guilty to breaching regulation of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations and Health and Safety at Work etc. Act, at Nottingham Crown Court.  They were fined £22,500 and agreed to pay costs of £44,227.28.

Speaking after the sentencing, HSE inspector Lindsay Bentley said: “This has been a very difficult case for all concerned. However, those in control of work have a responsibility to implement safe methods of working. Had simple measures been taken, this tragedy could have been prevented. “

Safety Aide can assist your business regarding Health and Safety, including Risk Assessments,  please get in touch on 08000 806 801or email:  info@safetyaide.com