Work experience student sadly killed in garage incident
It has been reported that Just Mercedes Limited has been fined after a 27 year old man gaining work experience at the garage, was crushed to death by a vehicle. (http://press.hse.gov.uk/2016/motor-vehicle-repair-company-fined-after-work-experience-student-crushed-by-vehicle/)
The 27 year old had been watching another employee carry out repair work on a Vauxhall Corsa, adding antifreeze to the engine. The mechanic went to the driver’s side opened the door and turned the ignition on from outside of the vehicle. The vehicle shot forward trapping and crushing the young man, who later died from his injuries.
A Health and Safety (HSE) investigation found no defects with the vehicle, but it had instead been left in gear with the handbrake off. HSE found that the employees of Just Mercedes Limited had not been given any specific instructions on selecting gears and use of handbrake when parking vehicles, on or off ramps. No specific instructions had been given to employees on operating the ignition from outside of the vehicle.
HSE inspector Lisa Bailey said after the hearing:
“Had the company ensured employees were trained and instructed on moving vehicles around the garage safely then this tragic incident might not have occurred.”
All employers have a duty of care to their employees.
People can be wary of making a claim against their employer for fear of reprisals, being labelled a trouble maker or the worry that it may affect the companies’ finances. Employers are legally required to have employer’s liability insurance, for this very reason.
How can we help?
If you are in an accident at work, it may not be at the fault of your employer, however if it could have been avoided then you may have a claim for personal injury, contact our Personal Injury team today at Ringrose Law where we can advise you if you have a claim. Where an employer fails to comply with their duty to keep their employees safe, we are very proud to be able to help workers get the compensation they deserve. Contact any of our offices at Lincoln, Boston, Spalding, Sleaford, Grantham and Newark.