Labourer Falls Through Unprotected Stairwell Opening

Brief Summary

A labourer fell one storey through an unprotected stairwell opening on a new build site after simple protections were not in place. An investigation found failures in planning, supervision and in taking suitable measures to prevent a fall from height. The case shows how basic site controls prevent severe injury and create legal exposure if omitted.

What Was The Incident?

During his second week on site a 24 year old temporary labourer stepped backwards and fell one storey onto concrete through an opening intended for a staircase that was not yet installed. The stairwell opening had not been securely covered because loose scaffold boards had been removed and the open edges had no edge protection. There was no alternative safe access to the sub floor. Emergency services and specialist rescue teams attended and the worker was taken from the opening unconscious. He sustained serious spinal injuries and has not returned to a physical job since. HSE identified failures to plan and supervise work at height and to put in place suitable physical safeguards and task specific risk assessments.

What Was The Outcome?

The employer was found guilty on three charges relating to failures to properly plan and supervise work at height and to take suitable and sufficient measures to prevent a fall. The company was fined 300,000 and ordered to pay 9,284.05 in costs at Leeds Magistrates Court on 16 September 2026. HSE brought the prosecution and took enforcement action.

Key Points To Consider

Plan and supervise work at height. Review and record task specific risk assessments and safe method statements before work begins, allocate competent supervision and verify that planned controls are in place on site.

Protect openings and edges. Fit secure coverings or install edge protection and guardrails around floor openings, fix temporary boards so they cannot be moved and provide inspected alternative access to sub floor areas.

Control temporary and inexperienced workers. Provide a site induction that explains specific hazards, confirm temporary staff understand access routes and exclusion zones and maintain close supervision during their first weeks on site.

HSE Prosecution Link