Telehandler Operator Sentenced After Site Fatality

Brief Summary

A lift supervisor was killed after being struck and reversed over by a telehandler on a construction site. The operator chose to reverse without a banksman despite an available turning circle and was using a mobile phone in breach of site rules. The case shows how failures in vehicle movement controls and operator behaviour can lead to fatal outcomes and criminal prosecution.

What Was The Incident?

On a large construction site in June 2023 a lift supervisor was walking back from the welfare compound when a telehandler struck and reversed over him, causing fatal injuries. The principal contractor had provided a clear turning circle to reduce the need to reverse, but the experienced telehandler operator chose to reverse without a banksman. The operator was also using his mobile phone while in control of the vehicle, contrary to the site rules he had signed.

What Was The Outcome?

The operator pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(2) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. He was sentenced to 12 weeks imprisonment suspended for 12 months, fined £800 and ordered to pay £2,000 in costs. The case followed an investigation and prosecution by the regulator.

Key Points To Consider

Plan vehicle movements to avoid reversing. Review site layout and task sequencing to minimise reversing; verify turning areas remain unobstructed and confirm routes for pedestrians and vehicles are segregated where possible.

Require and check banksman use. Set clear rules for when a banksman must be used, check that drivers understand and follow those rules, and monitor compliance so operators cannot choose to reverse without assistance.

Control operator distractions. Confirm a written no mobile phone policy for vehicle operators, record that staff have agreed to it, and carry out active supervision and checks to ensure the ban is followed during vehicle operation.

HSE Prosecution Link