Charles Harper, a 71-year-old worker, met with a tragic accident at an HS2 construction site in Solihull on April 27, 2023. The incident took place at the Sublot 5 Site on Middle Bickenhill Lane, Marston Green, Solihull. Mr. Harper was engaged in horizontal directional drilling and associated works as part of the HS2 high-speed railway construction project.
The accident involved a 180mm polyethylene coiled pipe being dispensed from a coil trailer. The tail end of the coiled pipe was not secured according to the operating instructions. As a result, the stored energy in the pipe caused it to spring and strike Mr. Harper. He sustained serious abdominal and chest injuries from the impact. He succumbed to his injuries and died the following day, April 28, 2023.
The coroner recorded a verdict of accidental death. The coroner highlighted that the pipe was not secured with the restraining clamp and strap provided with the coil trailer, which contributed to the accident. The coroner emphasized the need for stricter adherence to safety protocols and recommended actions to prevent future deaths. HS2 Ltd acknowledged the coroner’s ruling and expressed condolences to Mr. Harper’s family, friends, and colleagues.
