A forklift truck driver in East Yorkshire died when the HGV he was loading was moved by its driver, trapping him underneath.

The company Brian White was working for, Kelkay in Pollington, has now been fined £600,000 following the incident in 2018.

An investigation into the fatality by the HSE found that the garden landscaping supply firm did not have a risk assessment that took into account the possibility of lorries moving while they were being loaded.

It also found that the systems of work provided for ensuring that vehicles were not moved during loading activities were inadequate.

At Grimsby Magistrates’ Court the company pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work Act and was fined £600,000 and ordered to pay costs of £20,848.71.

White’s partner Joan said: “Brian went to work on that day but didn’t return home through no fault of his own.

“We had made plans for the future together but then everything was turned upside down on that day.

“My life was then a total disaster from that day.”

His eldest son Barry added: “Not a day goes by without me thinking of my dad and how we have lost a massive part of our family. He was our rock who we could turn to for advice and help.

“We have lost a friend and a father and a grandad all in one go.”

HSE inspector John Boyle said: “This incident could have been avoided by implementing the correct control measures and safe working practices.

“Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”

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