Lewis Builders Ltd, a construction firm based in Lewis, has been fined £40,000 for failing to adhere to health and safety regulations that led to the tragic death of a retired vicar, Philip Walker, aged 72. The incident took place on the A858 near Kirivick on the Isle of Lewis, where Mr. Walker was struck by a loose scaffolding board that was protruding from a vehicle owned by the company.
The court heard that the method used to secure the load on the truck was deemed inadequate and unsuitable by an industry expert. The company pleaded guilty to a charge under the Health and Safety at Work Act, citing failures in risk assessment, providing and maintaining a safe system of work, and offering proper information, instruction, and training to its employees regarding securing items for transport.
During the court hearing, it was revealed that a worker from Lewis Builders Ltd had secured the scaffolding boards with rope, which was looped and knotted to hooks on the truck. Despite the boards being tightly secured, one of them came loose while the vehicle was in motion, causing it to collide with Mr. Walker’s campervan, resulting in fatal injuries.
Following the tragic incident, investigations found that the company’s method of securing the load was inadequate and did not comply with industry guidelines. The court was informed that the driver of the pickup truck, Donald Maclean, had been banned from driving for four years and received community service for his role in the accident.
The company expressed deep regret and sympathy for Mr. Walker’s family, with their advocate outlining steps taken to improve health and safety procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The court acknowledged the devastating impact of the incident on Mr. Walker’s family and emphasized the importance of adhering to industry best practices to avoid such tragic consequences.
In delivering the verdict, Sheriff Aitken expressed condolences to Mr. Walker’s family and imposed a fine of £40,000 on Lewis Builders Ltd. The judge highlighted the need for companies to stay updated on industry best practices and ensure the safety of their employees and the public. The case serves as a reminder of the profound impact that lapses in health and safety measures can have and underscores the importance of maintaining effective and robust procedures to prevent accidents and loss of life.