A tragic workplace accident at a Ginsters factory led to the death of an employee.
- Paul Clarke was crushed by a reversing lorry while on his first lone shift.
- The Health and Safety Executive identified inadequate risk assessment as a key failure.
- Samworth Brothers admitted breaching safety laws and were fined £1.28m.
- The incident highlights the need for better protection of workers in vehicle areas.
In a devastating incident at a Ginsters factory, employee Paul Clarke was fatally injured by a reversing lorry. Clarke, who was on his first lone shift, was moving strip curtains in the loading bay when he was crushed. The tragic event occurred on 2 December 2021 at The Cornwall Bakery in Callington.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) conducted an investigation into the incident, revealing significant lapses in safety measures. They found that Samworth Brothers, the owner of the factory, had failed to adequately assess the risks posed by the temporarily installed strip curtains, which replaced a faulty roller door. There was no safe procedure established for moving the curtains, leading employees to create their own methods, dangerously positioning themselves behind reversing vehicles.
As a result of these findings, Samworth Brothers pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act. This admission led to the company being fined £1.28 million, alongside costs of £24,106 at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court.
Clarke’s death has had a profound impact on his family, particularly his mother, Bernice. She expressed her ongoing grief, mentioning the absence of family holidays and celebrations, including Christmas, due to the emotional toll of the loss.
HSE inspector Aimie Baker highlighted the broader implications of workplace transport incidents, noting that pedestrian-vehicle interactions in work settings are a leading cause of fatal injuries. Employers are urged to plan and design workplaces to minimise such risks, with regular monitoring and adjustments to ensure safety measures remain effective.
Following the incident, Samworth Brothers expressed their sorrow and shock. They described Clarke as a positive influence and a well-respected team member. In response to the accident, the company conducted a thorough internal review and implemented several safety improvements to prevent future occurrences. Samworth Brothers confirmed their full cooperation with the HSE throughout the investigation.
This incident underscores the critical importance of stringent workplace safety practices, especially in high-risk environments involving vehicles.
