An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that Eco Waste and Recycling Limited had failed to act on risk assessments and adequately separate vehicles and pedestrians at its Hullocks Pill Hill, Newnham site. Had they acted on risk assessment details, the man would not have been struck by a reversing telehandler whilst he was sorting recyclable materials by hand.
Eco Waste and Recycling Limited, of High Firs Crescent, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, pleaded guilty to breaching 4(1) of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and Regulation 5(1) of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. The company was fined £30,000 and ordered to pay £3,102.50 in costs at St Albans Magistrates’ Court on 4 May 2023.
HSE inspector Adam Johnson said: “This incident could so easily have been avoided. Segregation measures should have been in place between vehicles and pedestrians. “Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate action against those that fall below the required standards.”
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It goes without saying that heavy equipment and pedestrians should never be working in close proximity, however human error or forgetfulness can lead to the use of vehicles in pedestrian zones. Using pre-use telehandler inspections can highlight potential issues regarding location or equipment safety. Within the Good to Go Safety Telehandler check book, inspectors will be asked a series of questions regarding the health of the Telehandler along with the location it is being used. A question as simple as "location" could highlight to drivers the area and additionally the hazards it poses.
In addition to highlighting environmental hazards, a pre-op walk around check provides compliance with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) who require that all lifting equipment is thoroughly examined by a competent person at specified intervals:
1. When the telehandler is put into service for the first time (LOLER Reg. 9(1)
2. A period not exceeding 12 months if the telehandler is only used for lifting goods (LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(ii));
3. A period not exceeding 6 months if the telehandler is used for lifting persons (LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(i));
4. After any major alteration or damage (event) (LOLER Reg. 9(3)(a)(iv))
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