The roll cage had been identified as broken two days before the accident. The procedures that would have stopped the incident were in place but were not known or not followed, and the staff had conflicting views on their Health and Safety responsibilities.
The Co-op pleaded guilty, recognising there had been failures in health and safety management in the store. Apparent abuse of their e-learning system was a particular concern. They were fined £500,000 plus costs but the penalty was reduced to £333,334 to reflect their early guilty plea and mitigating factors
At the core of this is the importance of roll cages being properly maintained and the employees being trained. Usdaw health and safety reps can help by inspecting roll cages, reporting any faults to the employer and monitoring employee training.
Please click here to see the press release from Horsham Council