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PHW · Stone and silica · 2026-01-28

Blyth Marble Limited fined £50,000 after a worker was fatally struck by falling granite slabs

Larkhall · Hamilton Sheriff Court

What happened

A worker was offloading granite slabs from a lorry loader when two slabs weighing over 900 kilograms fell and struck him after safety posts that should have prevented the slabs toppling had been removed. He was working alone despite procedures requiring two people, and the company's safe system of work lacked specific guidance for multiple-slab lifting.

Injuries: fatal

The breach

HSWA 1974 s2(1)

The sentence

  • Fine: £50,000
  • Other sentence: Victim surcharge £3,750
HSE inspector

“This was a tragic incident which could have been prevented had the company made sure the appropriate safety measures were in place.”

What would have prevented it

Heavy slab loads must be secured with safety posts at all times and offloaded only by the required number of trained staff, never alone.

How PHW helps

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

Sector

Training and H&S evidence for stone and worktop fabricators

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Safety pack

Working at height

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Machine

Lorry loader

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Quiz

Could you show an inspector today, in writing, that respirable silica exposure has been assessed?

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Source: HSE press release, Stone company fined £50,000 after worker fatally struck by falling granite slabs