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PHW · Working at height · 2026-05-08

Willow Services (Southern) Ltd fined £20,000 after a roofer fell through an unprotected loft hatch

Waterlooville, Hampshire · Westminster Magistrates' Court

What happened

A roofer fell approximately 11 feet through an unprotected loft hatch while stripping internal insulation during re-roofing work at a property in Wimbledon. The hatch had not been identified or protected during planning of the work.

Injuries: Fractured L1 vertebra and hip; unable to return to work and his employment was subsequently terminated.

The breach

Regulation 4(1) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005

The sentence

  • Fine: £20,000
  • Costs: £5,607
HSE inspector

“This incident was entirely avoidable and resulted from a failure to properly plan the work and provide competent supervision.”

What would have prevented it

Planning work at height must identify every fall hazard on site, including hatches and openings that are easy to overlook.

How PHW helps

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

Sector

Training and H&S evidence for construction sites

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Safety pack

Working at height

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Quiz

Could you show a site manager today, in writing, that each operator is authorised to use your machines?

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Source: HSE press release, Company fined after roofer fell through unguarded loft hatch