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PHW · Working at height · 2026-08-11

Wirral Council fined £6,000 after an employee fell when a stepladder collapsed

Heswall, Wirral · Warrington Magistrates' Court

What happened

An employee attempted to access a loft space at a council site in Heswall using a stepladder, which collapsed beneath him as he neared the top. The council had failed to put in place basic measures to manage the risks associated with working at height.

Injuries: Fractured collarbone and broken ribs.

The breach

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

The sentence

  • Fine: £6,000
  • Costs: £4,000
HSE inspector

“This worker suffered painful and life-changing injuries in a fall that could have been prevented.”

What would have prevented it

Even short-duration loft access needs a basic risk assessment and equipment check, not just whatever stepladder is to hand.

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, Council fined £6,000 after stepladder collapse leaves worker with broken ribs