Companies Face £633,333 Fine Following Scaffolder’s Injury at Decommissioned Nuclear Site

A total fine of £633,333 has been imposed on two companies following an incident at a former nuclear power station where a scaffolder sustained injuries resulting in the amputation of some of his toes. The incident occurred on June 13, 2022, at the Dungeness B facility in Kent, which is currently undergoing decommissioning. Colin Dell, aged 62, was struck by a two-tonne counterweight that had not been adequately secured, necessitating the amputation of some of his toes. EDF and Trillium Flow Services Ltd pleaded guilty to charges of failing to ensure the health and safety of their employees concerning risks encountered during maintenance and repair operations. Both companies received their fines at Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on Thursday. EDF received a fine of £533,333, while Trillium Flow Services Ltd was fined £100,000. Additionally, each company was ordered to pay prosecution costs amounting to £15,034.73. The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) conducted the prosecution. The ONR stated that the descending counterweight struck Mr. Dell’s hand and foot, pinning him. Mr. Dell has been unable to resume his profession as a scaffolder and has experienced post-traumatic stress. The regulator indicated that certain EDF employees had been assigned responsibilities beyond their technical competencies, and tasks were being performed without the necessary signed approvals. It further noted that risk reduction measures were not implemented, and the company’s health and safety protocols were significantly below acceptable standards. The ONR also determined that Trillium Flow Services Ltd was accountable for an inadequate and insufficient risk assessment, a team with limited experience in working on the site’s main counterweight valves, a deficient understanding of valve operation, and indications of poorly informed decision-making. Dan Hasted, ONR’s director of regulation, operating facilities division, commented: “This accident was wholly avoidable. Nobody should go to work and not come home in a fit and healthy state.” He added: “We concluded that there were several missed opportunities that could have prevented this accident occurring.”