In a shocking turn of events, Sunrise Poultry Farms Limited, a prominent egg supplier in the UK, has been slapped with a hefty fine of £233,000. The penalty comes in the wake of a tragic incident that claimed the life of a 19-year-old worker, Ben Spencer.
Ben, a new recruit at the company’s premises on Seagrave Road, Sileby, Loughborough, met a tragic end on April 12, 2021. The young worker was crushed between a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) and a wall while the vehicle was manoeuvring through a narrow passage.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) launched an investigation into the incident, revealing a severe lack of adequate safety measures at the site. The company’s failure to segregate pedestrians and moving vehicles was identified as the primary cause of the accident.
In a hearing at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on November 22, 2023, Sunrise Poultry Farms Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Regulation 17 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992. The court ordered the company to pay a fine of £233,000 and additional costs of £8,841.
The incident has left Ben’s mother, Tracy, in deep grief. She shared her struggle to cope with the loss of her son, stating that she often walks her dog late at night to avoid conversations. The tragic incident continues to cast a long shadow over Ben’s family and friends.
Following the hearing, HSE Enforcement Lawyer Andy Siddall emphasised the importance of workplace safety. He stated, “The company admitted failing to segregate vehicles and pedestrians at its workplace in Sileby, and that resulted in the tragic death of Ben. Accidents like this simply shouldn’t happen, and a mother shouldn’t have to hold the hand of her son as he lies dying in the workplace”.
The case has underscored the need for companies to review their workplace transport risk assessments and ensure that proper safety measures are in place. The HSE has urged businesses to think carefully about their safety protocols to ensure that everyone goes home safely.
The tragic death of Ben Spencer serves as a stark reminder of the importance of workplace safety. The significant fine imposed on Sunrise Poultry Farms Limited underscores the consequences of failing to adhere to safety regulations. It is hoped that this case will prompt other companies to take proactive measures to protect their employees and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
