Hessle Plant Ltd has been fined £433,550 after delivery driver Chris Keegan was killed on 20 November 2023 at the company’s Castleford depot.
Chris was reversing a forklift onto a trailer when it fell, trapping him between the vehicle and a neighbouring trailer. Emergency services were unable to save him.
An HSE investigation found the forklift had not been fully inspected or maintained and had several defects. The company also failed to ensure seatbelt use, which likely contributed to the fatality. While pre-delivery inspections were done for new customers, returned machines were not properly checked.
Hessle Plant Ltd pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and was ordered to pay £8,146.80 in costs and a £2,000 victim surcharge.
HSE Inspector David Beaton said:
“This was a tragic and preventable death. The case highlights the need for proper maintenance of machinery and strict enforcement of seatbelt use for forklift operators.”
What this means for employers:
It’s vital that employers ensure equipment is properly maintained and inspected for all employees and staff, as well as consistently following safety procedures. Taking out suitable risk assessments will make sure that any risks are brought to light and can be corrected before any incidents occur.
Guidance on safe forklift operation is available on the HSE website.
