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PHW · Waste and recycling · 2026-09-14

Fire Protection Recycling Limited fined £40,000 after a worker was killed by an exploding fire extinguisher

Oldbury, West Midlands · Birmingham Magistrates' Court

What happened

A worker was processing powder fire extinguishers at end of life when a cartridge-type extinguisher experienced a sudden pressure release and exploded, striking him in the head; the extinguisher became embedded in the workroom ceiling. He died on 8 March 2023 at hospital despite medical treatment.

Injuries: Fatal.

The breach

Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

The sentence

  • Fine: £40,000
  • Costs: £17,034
HSE inspector

“He should have returned home safely to his family at the end of his working day but because of the failings of Fire Protection Recycling Limited, he did not.”

What would have prevented it

End-of-life pressurised containers such as fire extinguishers need a safe, controlled discharge and processing procedure before being broken down, never handled as if they are inert.

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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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, Fire extinguisher recycling company fined after 'thoughtful and kind' man killed at work