Wall Collapse Led To Fall Through Unprotected Stairwell

Brief Summary

A construction company was fined after a worker was knocked through an unprotected floor opening when a wall collapsed. The case highlights failures in fall prevention, instruction and onsite supervision during working at height tasks.

What Was The Incident?

On 25 April 2024 at a site in Milnthorpe, Cumbria, a general labourer was sweeping up dust and debris on the first floor at the end of the working day. Boards had been laid across part of a large floor opening for a planned staircase, but they did not cover the entire opening. The remaining gap had no edge protection, no warning signage, and the worker had not been given safety instructions for that area. While sweeping along the boards, a newly built wall to the left collapsed and knocked him over the unprotected edge onto a concrete floor 2.5 to 3 metres below.

What Was The Outcome?

The Company pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 6(3) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 for failing to ensure suitable and sufficient measures were in place to prevent falls liable to cause personal injury. The company was fined £60,000 and ordered to pay £4,799.44 in costs, plus a £2,000 victim surcharge at Lancaster Magistrates Court on 23 December.

What Lessons Can Be Learnt?

Plan and control fall risks from floor openings. Where boards only cover part of an opening, the remaining gap must be properly protected to prevent falls into floor openings that could cause serious injury.

Provide clear warnings and safety instructions. Workers should be made aware of hazards and the required control measures before they carry out work near unprotected edges or openings.

Ensure protective measures are suitable and sufficient. The investigation found that the risk of falling through the gap was not addressed, so the controls in place were not sufficient for the level of risk.

Maintain effective supervision during high risk construction activities. No site supervisor or manager was present at the time. Active oversight is needed to ensure controls remain in place and work is carried out safely.

Use working at height guidance as a baseline for prevention. HSE guidance expects employers to take precautions to prevent falls from heights, including falls into floor openings, supported by appropriate planning and implementation.

HSE Prosecution Link