An electricity and gas utility company has today been fined after a worker was killed on Winslow Road in East Claydon.

Aylesbury Crown Court heard how, on 18 November 2016, Paul Marsden, a sub-station crafts person for National Grid Electricity Transmission was to move a delivery crate containing a compressor with the help of a colleague. Mr Marsden was using a remote-controlled lorry loader crane but as they attempted to attach the slings to the hook, the crane struck Mr Marsden resulting in fatal injuries.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found National Grid Electricity Transmission PLC failed to ensure the lift was properly planned, effectively supervised and carried out safely. The company also failed to ensure Mr Marsden had received adequate training in the new lorry loader crane, in particular the additional risks due to the remote-control unit.

National Grid Electricity Transmission PLC of The Strand, London, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 2(1) of Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Regulation 8(1) of the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER). The company was fined £334,000 and ordered to pay costs of £17 673.34 costs, as well as an additional victim surcharge of £170.

HSE inspector Stephen Faulkner, speaking after the sentencing said: “This tragic incident could have been avoided if the company had properly planned the movement of the crate involved. Employers must recognise operating remote-controlled plants carry their own risks and should be managed appropriately, including through providing adequate training for employees.”

“Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”