Contractor jailed after teenager’s fatal fall during demolition work

Jason Hill, 59, had engaged teenager Thomas Neate, known as Tom, to assist with the demolition of a garage at a house ahead of an extension project.

On 16 August 2023, Tom was working on the garage roof removing tiles and other materials when he fell through an unprotected opening. He sustained severe head injuries and was taken to hospital, where he later died on 23 September.

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that Hill had failed to implement any measures to prevent a fall from height, despite the obvious risks involved in the work. The demolition was carried out directly from the roof, with no scaffolding, decking, edge protection or other systems in place to prevent falls through or from the structure.

HSE inspectors also identified wider failings in the management of the site, including unsafe use of a mini-digger and a failure to prevent members of the public from accessing the work area.

The investigation further revealed that no assessment had been undertaken to establish whether asbestos was present before demolition began. Corrugated concrete sheets being snapped and removed by hand were later confirmed to be asbestos cement, a material commonly found in buildings constructed before 2000. Three other workers on site, as well as the occupants of the property, were put at risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.

HSE guidance makes clear that before any demolition or refurbishment work is undertaken, dutyholders must assess the presence of asbestos and plan the work so it can be carried out safely.

Hill pleaded guilty to breaching section 3(2) of the Health and Safety at Work Act at Staines Magistrates’ Court last month. He was immediately jailed for 12 months. No costs were awarded.

HSE inspector Jennifer Lester said 'even small contractors and individuals working on domestic projects have a legal duty to protect workers and the public. Failing to do so can have devastating consequences.'