Recent prosecutions – transport company fined £400,000 after fatal vehicle crane accident

A transport company was fined £400,000 and ordered to pay costs of over £19,000 following an accident involving a driver and a vehicle-mounted crane. The employee died of his injuries in hospital a month after the 2020 incident, which happened when he climbed onto the bed of his trailer to sling the load. He was struck by the crane and fell to the ground while moving the load with the machine's remote control.

A subsequent HSE investigation revealed that work at height risks had not been suitably assessed and fall risks had been inadequately prevented and controlled. The driver had also not received adequate training on the safe operation of the vehicle's remote crane controls.

Specialist guidance on remote crane controls

Remote crane controls can present serious safety concerns if misused. Key best practice points:

• Ensure you only access the vehicle bed when absolutely necessary.
• Only use proper access and egress methods.
• Keep your vehicle sides up whenever possible.
• Check for trip hazards. Stay clear from the edge.
• Ensure you understand your crane remote controls. Isolate the controls when not in use.
• DO NOT use your crane when on the back of the vehicle bed. Position yourself in a safe position where you can observe the load.
• Always wear a hard hat with a restraining device when using the crane.