Bam Nuttall faced a significant penalty following a tragic accident in 2017.
- A worker drowned at Knostrop Weir in Leeds due to inadequate safety measures.
- The Health and Safety Executive identified multiple failures by the company.
- Bam Nuttall pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety laws.
- The company received a substantial fine and was ordered to cover legal costs.
In a harrowing event that unfolded in 2017 at Knostrop Weir, Leeds, a worker named Gary Webster tragically lost his life. Webster, along with a colleague, was tasked with removing debris from the bottom of weir gates. However, their boat capsized in turbulent waters, resulting from the considerable flow over the weir, as reported by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). While Webster’s colleague managed to swim to safety, Webster was not as fortunate. He was repeatedly submerged before a diver recovered him 14 minutes later. Despite efforts, he succumbed to his injuries two days later in Leeds General Infirmary.
An investigation by the HSE unveiled critical lapses in safety protocols by Bam Nuttall Ltd. The findings revealed that the company had operatives trained and authorised to control weir gates, which could have slowed water flow, allowed debris to drift away, or made it safe to approach by boat. However, the company failed to undertake these preventive measures, ultimately contributing to the fatal incident.
Bam Nuttall Ltd admitted to transgressing Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The admission of guilt resulted in a fine of £2.345 million, accompanied by an order to pay £25,770.48 in associated costs, handed down by Leeds Magistrates’ Court on 12 June.
HSE inspector Jayne Towey highlighted the failings in the company’s operational planning. She stated, “Bam Nuttall Ltd failed to plan the work. It failed to carry out any assessment of the risks involved with the task.” The absence of adherence to recognised safety controls, which might have mitigated the risk when removing debris from the turbulent waters, was evident. Moreover, she criticised the company’s disregard for implementing suitable safety measures and establishing a safe system of work. Towey emphasised that “this incident could so easily have been avoided by simply carrying out correct control measures and safe working practices.”
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols.
