Alan Campbell, who worked for Anglian Windows Limited, fell when loading an easi-dec system onto the roof of the van on 19 June 2012. Campbell suffered two bleeds to the brain and was kept in an induced coma for over three weeks. Compression to his forehead required a metal plate to be inserted to partly reshape his face. He now suffers epilepsy and is unable to drive.
After an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive and the Crown Office and the Procurator Fiscal Service, it was found that Anglian Windows Limited had failed to provide sufficient information, instruction, training and supervision to employees who were required to load and unload equipment from van roofs.
Speaking after the hearing in Norwich, HSE inspector Ritchie McCrae said: “Loading and unloading of materials and equipment from van roofs should be properly planned and appropriate control measures identified and employed.
“On this occasion, Anglian Windows failed to control the risk of falls from van roofs as the company was entirely reliant on an instruction which was not properly communicated and was not monitored to check compliance. As a result of this, an incident occurred which was entirely preventable and an employee sustained serious and life changing injuries.”
To view the HSE's best practice guide on working at height, click here.