Poole Waste Firm Slapped with Corporate Manslaughter Conviction
A waste and recycling company in Poole has been found guilty of corporate manslaughter following the tragic death of an employee. Another man was seriously injured in a separate incident at the same site. The firm, FDS Waste Services, and one of its directors now face hefty fines and a suspended prison sentence.
Fatal Accident and Serious Injuries at Recycling Yard
On 13 December 2018, employee Yamal Mohamed was fatally struck by a reversing wheeled loader while sorting recycling by hand at the company’s Mannings Heath Road site. He tragically died from his injuries.
Then, on 1 June 2020, another worker was trapped in a large mechanical conveyor after climbing in to clear a blockage. The man suffered broken ribs and other serious injuries.
Company Fails Safety Tests, Faces Heavy Fines and Prison for Director
Investigations by Dorset Police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) uncovered multiple safety breaches. The firm failed to separate workers from moving vehicles and didn’t provide adequate training, supervision, or safety equipment, such as padlocks to isolate power during machine maintenance.
After a four-week trial at Winchester Crown Court, FDS Waste Services was found guilty of corporate manslaughter and health and safety violations. The company was slapped with fines totalling £640,000 plus £60,000 in costs.
Director Philip Pidgley was convicted of breaching safety laws and handed a six-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months.
Officials Demand Accountability and Safer Workplaces
“Our thoughts remain with the family and loved ones of Mr Mohamed,” said Detective Superintendent Rich Dixey. “We owe it to them to hold those who failed to instil safe working practices to account.”
HSE inspector Berenice Ray added: “Both incidents, including the tragic death of Mr Mohamed, could have been avoided with proper safety measures. Employers must ensure safe segregation of pedestrians and vehicles, lock off machinery during maintenance, and provide proper training and supervision.”
For more workplace safety advice, visit the HSE website for free guidance on risk management and safe working methods.
