Multiple convictions after worker killed by trench collapse

Principal contractor, Appledorn Developments Limited, was fined £500,000, while subcontractor, T Vaughan Limited, was fined £650,000 and ordered to pay £40,000 in costs.

Meanwhile, self-employed contracts manager, Anthony O’Connor, was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid work.

Gheorghita Arsene, who was known as Geo, was clearing soil in the trench in order to replace a damaged pipe when, without warning, the walls collapsed.

A joint investigation by Surrey Police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found there were no supports in the trench and excavated soil had been deposited immediately next to it.

The HSE provides detailed online guidance around excavation safety, outlining the relevant legal requirements and key issues such as collapse, falling, and services.

BALI also provides a risk assessment template for members on excavations and buried services, as part of a wider suite of risk assessment templates.

A HSE spokesperson said:

“Gheorghita Arsene’s death was as horrifying as it was preventable. He lost his life because basic precautions were not in place to protect workers from the well-known risks that come with excavation work. Anthony O’Connor had observed workers in the trench without adequate protection and was aware of the measures required to prevent a collapse.

“This case is a stark reminder that when basic safety standards are ignored, the consequences can be fatal. Companies and individuals alike have legal duties to protect workers and where they fail to do so, and we will not hesitate to take enforcement action.

“Our thoughts today are with Mr Arsene’s loved ones, as they mourn their loss.”