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PHW · Waste and recycling · 2025-10-15

Biffa Waste Services Ltd fined £2,480,000 after a worker was fatally struck by a reversing skip wagon

High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire · Leeds Magistrates' Court

What happened

A sort line operative was struck from behind by a reversing skip wagon while crossing a weighbridge to reach the site office. Control measures existed to separate pedestrians and vehicles but a lack of monitoring and supervision had allowed poor working practices to develop.

Injuries: Died from crush injuries inflicted by the rear wheels of the vehicle.

The breach

Regulation 5(1) of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

The sentence

  • Fine: £2,480,000
  • Costs: £5,768
HSE inspector

“This incident was easily avoidable. Control measures were in place to allow pedestrians and vehicles to move safely, but supervision was lacking.”

What would have prevented it

Monitor and supervise pedestrian and vehicle segregation controls on site, not just install them.

How PHW helps

The machines, packs and quizzes that fit this kind of site.

Sector

Training and evidence for waste and recycling sites

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Safety pack

Vehicle marshal (banksman and reversing)

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Quiz

Could you show, in writing, that every excavator or loading shovel operator is authorised for that machine?

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Source: HSE press release, Biffa fined almost £2.5 million after worker crushed by skip wagon