Death of a contractor – an update from HSE

The investigation into the death of a maintenance contractor has been handed over to the Health and Safety Executive.

A 79 – year old man died on September 4 whilst carrying out track maintenance duties at Babbacombe Cliff Railway, Babbacombe, Downs Road, Torquay.

A joint investigation was launched with and led by Devon and Cornwall Police. Whilst inquiries continue, the Health Safety Executive (HSE) will now lead the investigation.

The criminal inquiry will determine if any breaches under the Health and Safety at Work Act have occurred.

HSE principal inspector Trevor Lowe said: “We will draw upon the evidence gathered so far to determine the cause of this tragic incident.

“During the investigation we will continue to keep in touch with the family of the deceased as we send them our deepest sympathies at this difficult time.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

1. The Health and safety Executive (HSE) is Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. We prevent work-related death, injury and ill health through regulatory actions that range from influencing behaviours across whole industry sectors through to targeted interventions on individual businesses. These activities are supported by globally recognised scientific expertise. gov.uk