In a stark reminder of the hazards associated with construction work, a tragic incident at a Shetland windfarm site has claimed the life of a young worker. Although this event may seem distant from our focus on stainless steel, it underscores a critical truth: every workplace, regardless of its nature, carries inherent risks. We must all commit to rigorous safety practices to ensure that every individual returns home safely at the end of the day.
No one expects to go to work and face life-threatening dangers. Yet, incidents like these remind us of the unpredictable nature of such environments. Our heartfelt thoughts are with the family, friends, and colleagues of the young man affected by this tragedy.
The worker, employed by Bam Nuttall, lost his life following an accident at a windfarm construction site in Shetland. The incident occurred yesterday morning at a site operated by SSE Renewables in the Upper Kergord area. This location is integral to the Viking windfarm project, which will eventually feature 103 turbines scattered across Shetland.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene and provided immediate assistance, but the 23-year-old worker was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. This windfarm, when completed, will have a capacity of 450 megawatts (MW) and will connect to the HVDC transmission link between Shetland and the Scottish mainland. Bam Nuttall is the primary contractor for both the Shetland HVDC link and the associated infrastructure.
In a statement, a Bam Nuttall spokesperson conveyed the company’s sorrow: “We confirm that an incident at our Viking Windfarm project site on Shetland has tragically resulted in the death of a colleague. Our deepest condolences go out to their family, and we are offering support to them and our team members. We are fully cooperating with our client and the authorities as an investigation unfolds.”
Derek Hastings, SSE Renewables’ head of onshore projects, expressed deep regret: “We are devastated by today’s news. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family, friends, and colleagues of the young man who has tragically passed away. We are working closely with Bam Nuttall and the relevant authorities to determine the cause of this incident.”
A representative from Police Scotland indicated that inquiries are ongoing to uncover all details of the incident. The Health and Safety Executive will be notified in due course.
The Viking windfarm project began in earnest when Scottish civil engineering contractor RJ McLeod was awarded the main contract in July 2020. The project marked a milestone in September 2021 when the first wind turbine base was concreted, requiring a substantial 700 cubic meters of concrete delivered by a fleet of ready-mix lorries.
Upon completion, this windfarm is expected to supply power to 475,000 homes and connect to the National Grid by 2024.
