Worker dies at Portsmouth ship scrapping yard

Hove Crown Court heard that 50 year old Paul Hudghton died after being hit by a rope being used to pull the jib of a small Tori crane back into position at Tipner Wharf, Portsmouth.

He suffered significant head injuries as a result of the rope breaking under tension and striking him. He was not part of the work activity, but was standing in the danger area of the operation.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) into the incident which occurred on 21 November 2012 found that there was no management of safety during the activity, or any suitable and sufficient risk assessment.

HSE inspector Joanne Williams said after the hearing: “This case which resulted in fatal injuries highlights the very need to ensure work is adequately assessed and planned, and carried out in a manner which is safe, taking into consideration not only the safety of employees but the safety of others who may be affected by your work.”

Diverse Ventures pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and was fined £45,000, with costs of £9000.