Builder jailed for 3 years for manslaughter

Contract Journal is reporting that the builder, Colin Holtom, who was facing jail after a 15-year old unskilled worked died has been found guilty of manslaughter. The journal reports:

On 23 April, 2007, Adam and his older brother were both working at the site. After completing some other work, Holtom told them they would now be demolishing the wall. There was no proper discussion or instruction on how the wall was to be removed before work started and Adam and his brother began demolition with no supervision.

The wall suddenly began to lean in the direction of a neighbour's garden. Adam went to speak to Holtom who apparently told them to get into the neighbour's garden and push the wall back.

As Adam did so, the wall fell towards him. His brother shouted for him to move out of the way but the wall fell, hitting a concrete garage. He called out again to Adam but there was no response. Adam had suffered a major head injury after becoming trapped against the garage.

Police, paramedics, HEMS air ambulance and the London Fire Brigade attended the scene. The emergency services managed to free Adam but he was confirmed dead at the scene.

Simon Hester, investigating inspector from the Health and Safety Executive said:

There was a complete disregard for basic health and safety requirements – inadequate personal protective equipment, no risk assessments, no training and minimal supervision. There were no welfare facilities on site and the workers were not even covered by Employees Liability Insurance.

Mr Holtom now faces 3 years in jail.