Company Fined Over Tragic Death of Worker Caught in Baler
Dale McClelland, 23, from Redruth, was killed on 16 November 2017 when he became trapped in a baling machine at H&A Recycling Ltd on Cardrew Industrial Estate. He died instantly at the scene.
First Corporate Manslaughter Conviction in Devon and Cornwall
After a lengthy three-year probe by Devon and Cornwall Police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), H&A Recycling pleaded guilty to corporate manslaughter and health and safety breaches at Truro Crown Court on 4 September.
Today, at Plymouth Crown Court, the company was slapped with a £200,000 fine plus nearly £46,000 in costs. This marks the first prosecution for corporate manslaughter under the 2007 Act in the Devon and Cornwall area.
Shock Footage Reveals Dangerous Work Culture
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Steve Hambly blasted the firm for multiple safety failings. Footage displayed in court showed staff play-fighting and racing around the factory floor in vehicles, underlining a lack of supervision and training.
“This investigation exposes dangerous disregard for staff safety. It was not acceptable to expose Dale to these risks,” said DI Hambly. “We hope this sends a clear warning to all employers that safety must be the heart of how they do business.”
HSE Inspector Simon Jones slammed the recycling plant, calling its machinery guarding “some of the worst I have seen in 20 years.” He warned that if the baler had been properly guarded and maintained, Dale’s death would have been prevented.
Dale’s Family Mourns, Urges Better Safety Standards
Touched by the verdict, Dale’s family paid tribute to the “family man with a heart of gold,” calling on all companies to raise their health and safety game.
“Dale was kind-hearted and the life and soul of every party. He was a devoted son, dad, fiancé and friend. This pain will never leave us,” said the family. “We hope this tragedy encourages firms to ensure the highest health and safety standards.”
