Firm fined £50k after worker killed in scissor lift fall
Summary
A construction firm has been fined after a worker died during dismantling works when wall panels collapsed and he was thrown from a scissor lift. The Health and Safety Executive found the company failed to properly assess, manage and communicate the risks associated with dismantling a structure installed by a third party.
Why it matters
The case highlights the need for robust risk assessment, method statements and communication on demolition or dismantling projects, especially where structural stability may be uncertain. Residential property surveyors may encounter similar hidden-defect and temporary-works risks when inspecting altered, adapted or partially dismantled buildings.
Key points
- Worker died after wall panels collapsed during dismantling works in Renfrew.
- HSE found inadequate assessment of collapse risk and insufficient structural support.
- Company assumed the structure met industry standards despite possible hidden defects.
- Risk assessment and method statement were not properly communicated to workers.
- Firm pleaded guilty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and was fined £50,000.
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