Bellway fined after telehandler accident

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has warned construction firms to be more aware of the potential dangers of telehandlers after two companies were fined a total of £57,500 following an on-site accident.

Bellway Homes Ltd and A D Bly Construction Ltd were fined after a worker was struck by the vehicle, and HSE Inspector Ian Shearring said: “The risks associated with construction vehicles is well-known and both companies failed in their duties to address these.

“Both Bellway Homes as the principal contractor, and A D Bly as subcontractor, have been held to account for failing to take adequate action to protect the health and safety of persons working on their site.”

Basildon Magistrates’ Court heard how, on 14 July 2015, a grounds worker was run over by a telehandler whilst undertaking work in the middle of the construction site road. He passed under the body of the reversing telehandler, and not under the wheels, which the court said would have likely resulted in his death.

The resulting injuries include chipped vertebra, muscular and tendon damage and the worker has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.

An HSE investigation found both the principal contractor, Bellway Homes, and subcontractor, A D Bly Construction “failed in their duties to effectively plan, manage and monitor control measures to address the risks associated with construction site vehicles”.

The HSE also found the two companies failed to manage and control the risk of persons being struck by a vehicle on their construction site.

A D Bly Construction Ltd of Nup End Business Centre, Old Knebworth, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 15(2) of Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 was fined £26,000 and ordered to pay costs of £5,271.38.

Bellway Homes Ltd of Seaton Burn House, Dudley Lane pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 13(1) of Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 and was fined £31,500 and ordered to pay costs of £48,600.