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PHW · Manufacturing · 2026-01-06

Futamura Chemical UK Ltd fined £200,000 after a worker was fatally overcome by hydrogen sulphide gas

Wigton, Cumbria · Warrington Magistrates' Court

What happened

A worker collapsed in a pump room after being exposed to hydrogen sulphide gas that had built up in the site's drainage system. A delivery driver who went to help was also overcome by the gas.

Injuries: fatal

The breach

Section 2(1) and Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

The sentence

  • Fine: £200,000
  • Costs: £20,000
HSE inspector

“This tragic case shows the importance of conducting a thorough and robust risk assessment to ensure that all risks are properly identified and managed.”

What would have prevented it

Sites with drainage systems that can accumulate hydrogen sulphide need a specific gas risk assessment and monitoring before anyone enters confined or low-lying areas.

How PHW helps

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

Sector

Training and evidence for manufacturing sites

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Quiz

Could a visitor on your shop floor check an operator's training record in under a minute?

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Source: HSE press release, Cellulose film packaging company fined after workers exposed to harmful gas