Lancashire Trucking Company Fined £30,000 After Mechanic’s Fatal Accident

E. Jackson (Chatburn) Limited, a Lancashire trucking company, faces a £30,000 fine following a tragic incident in which a mechanic, Joseph Robinson, lost his life while repairing a forklift truck. The accident occurred at the company’s site in Clitheroe on October 13, 2020. The unfortunate incident sheds light on the importance of maintaining workplace safety, particularly when dealing with heavy machinery.

The Incident:

Joseph Robinson, a 39-year-old mechanic, was assisting a new employee in fixing a steering fault on a forklift truck. During the repair process, Mr. Robinson instructed the new employee to move the forklift forward. Unfortunately, the forklift reversed unexpectedly, trapping Mr. Robinson against a trailer and causing severe head injuries.

Immediate Consequences:

Joseph Robinson was rushed to the hospital and placed in an induced coma. Despite efforts, he succumbed to his injuries on October 14, 2020. His untimely death marked a profound loss for his family, and in a poignant gesture, his organs were donated to benefit eight individuals.

Family’s Perspective:

In a heartfelt Victim Personal Statement (VPS), Joseph Robinson’s mother, Sue Robinson, described him as a much-loved son, brother, and friend. She highlighted his honest, hardworking, and generous spirit, emphasizing the deep impact his loss had on the family.

HSE Investigation Findings:

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation revealed critical safety lapses. The forklift truck involved was over 30 years old, lacked proper maintenance, and had not undergone a Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER) examination for years. Additionally, no clear safety principles, such as designated repair areas or pedestrian-vehicle separation, were in place at the site.

Legal Consequences:

E. Jackson (Chatburn) Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company faced a £30,000 fine and was ordered to pay costs of £3,712.80 at Crewe Magistrates’ Court on April 11, 2023.

HSE Inspector’s Statement:

HSE inspector Shellie Bee emphasized that the incident could have been easily avoided had the forklift truck been properly maintained, and the operator received appropriate training. She urged employers to conduct thorough risk assessments for forklift operations and ensure the implementation of safe systems of work.

The tragic loss of Joseph Robinson underscores the critical need for companies to prioritize workplace safety, especially when dealing with heavy machinery. The legal consequences faced by E. Jackson (Chatburn) Limited serve as a reminder of the accountability companies bear in ensuring the well-being of their employees. Employers are urged to adhere to safety regulations, conduct regular equipment maintenance, and provide comprehensive training to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.