Taylor Wimpey UK Limited has been fined £800,000 after a 17-year-old apprentice bricklayer was injured when a temporary stairwell covering collapsed at a housing development in Weston-super-Mare.
The incident, which the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) described as “entirely preventable,” highlights the critical importance of proper temporary works design and supervision on construction sites.
The Incident
The accident occurred at the Meadfields development, where Taylor Wimpey was constructing around 450 new homes.
Charlie Marsh, a teenage apprentice with less than a year’s experience, was moving concrete blocks across the first-floor level of a new build when the floor gave way beneath him. The temporary platform — installed to cover a stairwell opening — collapsed, sending him and roughly 20 kg of concrete blocks falling more than two metres to the ground below.
Charlie sustained injuries to his fingers, hand, wrist, and shoulder, though the HSE later noted he was “lucky not to have suffered more serious harm.”
Investigation Findings
The HSE investigation found that the temporary flooring was not properly supported.
It lacked essential back-propping beneath the timber joists — a measure clearly outlined in Taylor Wimpey’s own health and safety procedures but overlooked on this plot.
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, employers must ensure that all reasonably practicable steps are taken to prevent structural collapse and protect anyone working under their control. Taylor Wimpey failed to meet these obligations.
Court Outcome
At North Somerset Magistrates’ Court, Taylor Wimpey UK Limited pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Act.
The company was:
- Fined £800,000
- Ordered to pay £6,240 in legal costs
- Ordered to pay a £2,000 victim surcharge
Following sentencing, HSE Inspector Derek Mclauchlan said:
“Any activity involving structural stability carries significant risk and must be thoroughly planned and safely executed.
Taylor Wimpey’s failings resulted in injuries to a young man just starting his career — he was fortunate not to be more severely hurt.”
Lessons for the Construction Industry
This case serves as a reminder that temporary works and structural stability checks are not optional. Even established contractors can face severe penalties when safety procedures are ignored.
To prevent similar incidents, site managers and supervisors should:
- Ensure all temporary works are designed, inspected, and signed off by competent persons
- Conduct risk assessments before loading or accessing temporary structures
- Provide CITB-approved safety training for all staff and contractors
Courses such as the CITB SMSTS, SSSTS, and Health & Safety Awareness (HSA) are designed to help organisations meet their legal duties and maintain safe worksites.
👉 Explore CITB Courses or call 0203 633 5505 to discuss training options.
Credit: HSE Media