Companies fined over avoidable deaths after two workers were killed in what safety inspectors described as a “wholly avoidable” industrial accident in West Yorkshire.
Daron Pickstock, 43, and Lee Horton, 58, died when a large industrial racking system collapsed during testing at Castefields Industrial Estate in Bingley on 29 October 2020.
What happened during the incident
The shelving structure was being loaded with heavy test weights, some weighing up to two tonnes, when it began to fail. Both men were working from a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) positioned beside the structure.
When the racking collapsed, it struck the platform, causing it to overturn. Both men suffered fatal injuries.
Failures identified by investigators
The Health and Safety Executive found serious planning and safety failures. Investigators concluded that the workers were exposed to unacceptable risk due to poor preparation and unsafe working methods.
Officials said the men had been positioned within the collapse zone of the racking while it was being tested, creating a dangerous situation if the structure failed.
Court findings and penalties
The case of companies fined over avoidable deaths was heard at Leeds Crown Court.
In the case of companies fined over avoidable deaths, Space Productiv Ltd, whose managing director was Lee Horton, admitted breaching Sections 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. The court fined the company £48,750 for each offence and ordered it to pay an additional £17,377 in legal costs.
Collins Site Services, Daron Pickstock’s employer, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the same Act. The firm was fined £60,000 and ordered to pay £10,292 in costs.
Together, the total financial penalty exceeded £150,000.
Family tributes
Lee Horton’s daughter described her father as not only a parent but a close friend and mentor. She said the loss had left an immense void in their lives.
Daron Pickstock’s son said he felt heartbroken, adding that future grandchildren would never know their grandfather. He said the circumstances surrounding his father’s death were particularly painful because they may have been preventable.
A wider safety warning
The case where companies fined over avoidable deaths highlights the importance of thorough risk assessments and safe systems of work when dealing with heavy industrial structures. Safety authorities continue to warn that inadequate planning and failure to control hazards can lead to tragic and preventable consequences.
Incidents such as those involving companies fined over avoidable deaths underline the critical importance of strong workplace safety standards and proper risk management.
Organisations such as OSH Association focus on promoting occupational safety awareness, hazard prevention, and responsible working practices. Access to clear safety guidance and training resources can help businesses prevent tragedies, protect workers, and strengthen compliance with health and safety law.
Our Latest News
- 5 Shocking Facts as Companies Fined Over Avoidable Deaths
- 5 Urgent Facts Behind the Cape Verde Travel Health Warning
- 7 Harsh Truths Showing Why US Healthcare Needs Fixing but Remains Divided
- 4 Alarming Failures Behind the Firm Fined After Worker’s Fingers Severed
- 3 Shocking Facts as Boss in Court After Worker Falls From Roof
