Firms fined over £1m after worker crushed to death in trench collapse
Summary
Two construction firms have been fined a combined total of more than £1m after a worker died when an unsupported 3-metre trench collapsed at a demolition site in Banstead, Surrey. The Health and Safety Executive and Surrey Police found that basic excavation safety measures were not in place, including trench support and proper spoil placement.
Why it matters
This case is a clear reminder of the life-critical risks associated with excavation work and the legal duties on contractors and managers to maintain safe systems of work. Residential property surveyors may encounter excavation and demolition risks on site visits, refurbishment projects and defect investigations, making awareness of trench safety essential.
Key points
- A worker died after a trench collapsed during pipe replacement works at a demolition site.
- HSE found the trench had no supports and excavated soil was placed immediately beside it.
- Principal contractor Appledorn Developments Ltd and subcontractor T Vaughan Ltd were convicted under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
- Fines totalled more than £1m, with additional costs ordered against T Vaughan Ltd.
- The case highlights the consequences of failing to implement basic excavation controls.
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