Results in £600,000 Fine for Landscaping Supply Company

Kelkay Limited, a garden landscaping supply company based in East Yorkshire, is facing a £600,000 fine following a devastating incident that resulted in the death of an employee. Brian White, 59, lost his life while operating a forklift truck at the company’s site on Heck and Pollington Lane. The fine underscores the critical importance of robust risk assessments and safety measures in preventing tragic workplace accidents.

The Incident:

Brian White was operating a forklift truck at Kelkay Limited’s site when a fatal incident occurred on June 15, 2018. While loading a lorry, the vehicle was moved by the driver, causing the forklift truck to overturn and trapping Brian underneath.

Investigation Findings:

An investigation conducted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed significant shortcomings in Kelkay Limited’s safety protocols. The company’s risk assessment failed to consider the possibility of lorries being moved during loading activities. Additionally, the systems of work in place to prevent vehicles from being moved during loading were deemed inadequate.

Legal Consequences:

Kelkay Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. In response, the company received a substantial fine of £600,000 and was ordered to pay £20,848.71 in costs. The legal action highlights the need for companies to prioritize comprehensive risk assessments and robust safety measures to prevent tragic incidents.

Family’s Response:

Brian White’s eldest son, Barry, expressed the profound impact of losing his father, describing him as the family’s rock and a source of guidance. The loss was deeply felt by the community, reflecting Brian’s significant presence in the local area. Brian’s partner, Joan, described the tragic incident as turning their lives upside down, emphasizing the lasting pain and the disruption of future plans.

HSE Inspector’s Statement:

HSE inspector John Boyle emphasized that the incident could have been avoided through the implementation of correct control measures and safe working practices. The statement serves as a reminder that companies falling below required safety standards will face appropriate enforcement actions by the HSE.

The £600,000 fine against Kelkay Limited serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of inadequate safety measures in the workplace. Employers are urged to prioritize thorough risk assessments, implement effective safety protocols, and ensure comprehensive systems of work to safeguard the well-being of their employees. Tragic incidents like these underscore the importance of maintaining a culture of safety to prevent devastating consequences for both workers and their families.