Serious Accident - operatives leg crushed between towing beam & trailer

1. SAFETY MESSAGE
Date : 28:Feb:2012
To : NEU, All
From : NEU Sustainability H&S
No. : 12-02/SM01
Re. : Serious Accident
On the 27 Feb 2012 at approximately 10:30 am an incident occurred on a Vestas Celtic Construction Site
resulting in the serious injury of a Vestas NEU Sub contractor. The casualty was evacuated and airlifted
from site to the local hospital where he underwent surgery to repair multiple fractures to his right leg.
A comprehensive investigation to identify the root is currently being carried out by the UK Health and Safety
Executive (HSE) with the full support and cooperation of Vestas NEU.
The accident occurred while reverse towing the tower section trailer with a telescopic handler. The injured
was stood on the platform between the trailer and telescopic handler steering the trailer. When the telescopic
handler was brought to a stop the un-braked trailer continued to move trapping the injured with the towing
beam across the legs.
Immediate Action. (Reminder)
1. Always ensure compliance with the relevant activity Work Instructions and Risk Assessments
2. Never stand on, near or between a trailer and/or towing vehicle during maneuvering exercises
3. Never exceed the towing capacities of vehicle while towing any type of load or trailer
4. Always identify before carrying out any maneuvering exercise if the load or trailer has a brake and
that the load/trailer does not exceed the towing capacity of the vehicle.
This accident could have quite easily resulted in a fatality! Always be aware of your environment and
surroundings, Never place yourself in danger. Look out for each other’s safety. Further advice and guidance
will be distributed on completion of the investigation. Please contact your local Sustainability Field Support
Safety Professional for further advice.
Yours sincerely / Med venlig hilsen
Paul Robbins
NEU Sustainability H&S