Groundworks firm fined after seatbelt-less driver breaks ankle
Summary
A groundworks contractor has been fined after a dumper-truck overturning incident left a driver with serious leg injuries. The HSE said the company had instructed operators not to wear seatbelts and had failed to adequately protect an open excavation, contrary to guidance and manufacturer instructions.
Why it matters
The case is a reminder that workplace transport controls and excavation protection remain critical on construction sites, including residential development projects. Surveyors involved in site inspections, due diligence or defect reporting should note the safety and compliance implications of poor temporary works and unsafe operating practices.
Key points
- Jim Yates & Sons Ltd was fined £20,000 and ordered to pay £4,824 in costs.
- A dumper-truck driver broke his ankle and foot after the vehicle overturned into an unprotected excavation.
- HSE said workers had been told not to wear seatbelts, despite guidance and manufacturer instructions.
- The regulator found excavations on site were not adequately protected to prevent vehicle access.
- The company pleaded guilty to breaching section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
