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PHW · Manufacturing · 2026-06-17

GNW 2023 Realisations Limited fined £400,000 after a worker was fatally struck by an ejected wrench

Cardiff · Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates' Court

What happened

A worker was attempting to re-tension overhead door springs using an industrial wrench when the tool slipped, causing the spring to unwind uncontrollably. The wrench was ejected and struck him, and he died from his injuries the following day.

Injuries: Catastrophic injuries; died the following day

The breach

Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Regulation 5(1) of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998

The sentence

  • Fine: £400,000
  • Costs: £17,854
HSE inspector

“This incident was entirely avoidable. Maintenance of industrial doors is high-risk and requires specialist equipment and trained people.”

What would have prevented it

Work involving stored energy, such as tensioned door springs, must only be carried out by properly trained specialists with the right equipment.

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Source: HSE press release, Firm fined £400,000 for health and safety breaches after man killed working at advertising printing company