In a somber turn of events, the construction community faces a wake-up call following a fatal incident at an HS2 site in Birmingham. Charlie Harper, a 71-year-old worker, tragically lost his life due to a preventable accident involving unsecured equipment. This incident not only highlights the fragility of life but also underscores the imperative need for stringent safety measures in the construction industry.
The Incident and Its Aftermath
On 27 April 2023, Harper Services, owned by the late Charlie Harper, was engaged in horizontal directional drilling at a Balfour Beatty-Vinci site. The task involved inserting a 180mm coiled pipe through a 100-metre pre-drilled hole. Unfortunately, due to the tail end of the pipe not being properly secured to its coil trailer, Harper suffered severe abdominal and chest injuries when the stored energy in the pipe was abruptly released. This incident sadly led to his passing the following day.
Coroner's Call for Action
In response to this tragedy, coroner James Bennett issued a Prevention of Future Deaths report. The report urgently calls for enhanced safety measures, particularly in the practices of drilling and pipe dispensing. Bennett’s investigation revealed a concerning trend of companies dispensing coiled pipe without securing the tail end, contrary to safety guidelines. This oversight, as Bennett notes, played a significant role in Harper's death.
A Daughter's Plea for Safety
Leah Howe, Harper’s daughter, supports the coroner's call for action. Emphasizing the family's wish to prevent further tragedies, she urges for widespread dissemination of the safety alert to protect others in the field.
Industry Bodies' Role
The report targets key industry bodies, including the Pipeline Industries Guild and the British Drilling Society. These organisations, renowned for advocating health and safety, are urged to alert their members about the risks associated with unsecured pipe dispensing.
HS2's Response
An HS2 spokesperson acknowledged the coroner's ruling, labelling Harper's death as accidental. They extended heartfelt sympathies to Harper’s family, friends, and colleagues and to all those affected by this tragic event.
Find A Start: A Beacon of Hope in Worksite Safety
In these challenging times, platforms like Find A Start play a crucial role in enhancing worksite safety. Our platform connects contractors with skilled tradespeople, emphasizing the importance of safety and proper training. At Find A Start, we believe in the power of collaboration and education to foster a safer, more efficient construction environment. For contractors and tradespeople dedicated to upholding the highest safety standards in the industry, Find A Start is your go-to resource. Visit our website at www.findastart.co.uk to discover how we are making a difference in construction safety and workforce efficiency.