Stephen Picken, 62, and Mark Kumar were working as demolition operatives for Veolia ES (UK) at an onshore facility in Great Yarmouth. On 17 October 2019, they were removing an overhanging piece of metal pipework known as a skirt pile.

The 27 tonne gave way, striking the mobile elevating work platform containing the men, throwing them to the ground 12 metres below. Picken died at the scene and Kumar suffered serious life-changing injuries.

‘Serious failings’

According to a report from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), serious failings were identified with the planning and the risk assessment.

‘Shortcomings in supervision of the incident were also identified. The company did not risk assess the skirt pile being removed as it was considered low risk. As a result, there was no cutting plan or safe system of work for the skirt pile.’

Admission

Veolia ES (UK) admitted breaching the UK’s Health and Safety at Work Act at Ipswich Crown Court on 22 July 2024. The company was fined £3 million and ordered to pay £60 000 in costs.

After the hearing, HSE inspector David King said: ‘This incident, in an emerging industry, highlights the level of controls required to safely demolish what are large, dangerous structures. Veolia did not meet these standards and tragically one life was lost, and another forever changed.’

Recycling International has asked Veolia for a comment.

Courtesy : recyclinginternational.com