Company Fined After Worker Crushed by Concrete Block in HGV Trailer

Brief Summary

The HSE investigation found failures in workplace transport controls, including inadequate segregation of workers from moving vehicles and lack of training and authorisation for the forklift driver involved in the incident.

What Was The Incident?

On 14 December 2023 a worker was inside an HGV box trailer while it was being loaded with one tonne concrete blocks in preparation for a DVSA brake test. A colleague loaded the blocks using a forklift truck and the forklift nudged a stack inside the trailer, causing the blocks to topple onto the worker, crushing his legs.

What Was The Outcome?

The company pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act. The company was fined £30,000 and ordered to pay £4,325 costs at Kidderminster Magistrates Court on 15 April 2026.

Key Points to Consider

Segregate people from moving vehicles. Ensure workers are protected from risks created by forklift truck movements and other transport activity on site, using effective segregation throughout the task.

Provide suitable training and authorisation. Only allow forklift truck operation by drivers who are trained and specifically authorised for the duties they carry out.

Control loading processes, not just equipment. Manage the whole loading operation, including how loads are positioned and handled, so that topple risks are addressed before workers enter or remain in hazardous areas.

Use risk assessments to drive day to day controls. Carry out thorough risk assessments and apply the control measures consistently, particularly where trailers and transport activity overlap.

Take workplace transport incidents seriously. Recognise that workplace transport incidents can cause severe injuries and implement robust arrangements to prevent workers being exposed to hazards from vehicle and forklift activity.

HSE Prosecution Link