Worker Killed After Access Through Guarding On Conveyor

Brief Summary

A worker was fatally injured after being drawn into a bag flattening compression conveyor through an opening in fixed guarding. The employer failed to prevent access to dangerous moving parts and did not have adequate safeguards in place. The case resulted in prosecution under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 and offers practical lessons for those managing machinery safety.

What Was The Incident?

On 24 June 2020 a production operative was operating a bag flattening compression conveyor when they were drawn into the machine through an opening in the fixed guard. Colleagues stopped the machine and dismantled guarding to remove the worker, who later died of crush injuries. The guard around the compression conveyors contained an opening of about 600 mm by 335 mm that allowed access to moving parts. After the event further guarding was fitted to prevent access to the conveyors.

What Was The Outcome?

The employer pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 11(1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. The company was fined £24,000 and ordered to pay a contribution to costs of £43,000. Additional guarding was installed after the incident.

Key Points To Consider

Check guard design and physical integrity. Inspect all fixed guards for gaps or openings that would allow access to moving parts; measure gaps against safe limits and verify that guards fully enclose the hazard or are replaced with suitable protection.

Review risk assessments and control selection. Confirm machinery hazards are identified in written risk assessments and that chosen controls either stop dangerous movement before a person can reach the danger zone or provide fixed enclosure; record why alternatives were rejected.

Verify procedures for operation maintenance and rescue. Check that operators have training, that emergency stop and rescue procedures are workable, and that routine maintenance and post installation checks include verification that guards remain fit for purpose.

HSE Prosecution Link