Plant Hire Company Fined After Bucket Falls During Vehicle Repair

Brief Summary

A plant hire company was fined after an employee suffered life changing injuries when a one tonne bucket fell while he was helping repair a tipper truck. The HSE found the vehicle body was not supported using appropriate equipment. The case highlights the need for suitable propping and safe systems of work when access under raised vehicle parts is required.

What Was The Incident?

On 24 October 2023, an employee was assisting a colleague repairing a broken lifting mechanism on a tipper truck body. A JCB was used to prop the tipper body in the raised position. The one tonne bucket became dislodged and fell onto the worker during the repair.

What Was The Outcome?

The Company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The company was fined £10,000 and ordered to pay costs of £3,475.90. The case was heard at Warrington Magistrates' Court on 27 January 2026.

What Lessons Can Be Learnt?

Use appropriate equipment to support elevated loads. When working on raised vehicle parts, support must be provided using suitable equipment that is fit for the purpose and can reliably prevent movement or dislodgement.

Ensure lifting attachments have effective retention. In this case, the bucket used to prop the tipper body did not have a quick hitch or retaining pin, which contributed to the bucket becoming dislodged.

Prop raised vehicle load areas when access is needed below. HSE guidance expects elevated load areas such as those on tipper lorries to be effectively propped if workers need access underneath.

Only place props on firm and level ground. Props should be used on firm, level ground, and should be capable of carrying the loads placed on them during the work.

Do not underestimate risks during motor vehicle repairs. Employers must ensure risks from working under raised vehicle bodies are properly assessed and controlled with appropriate equipment and systems of work.

HSE Prosecution Link