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Decorator given suspended sentence after stepson is fatally electrocuted at work
Overview
A painter and decorator has received a suspended prison sentence after his 24-year-old stepson and trainee was fatally electrocuted while moving a ladder close to overhead power lines in Cheshire. The Health and Safety Executive investigation found that the work had not been properly planned, supervised, or carried out safely.
Key points
- Connor Lambert, 24, died on 29 July 2024 when a ladder came into contact with or too close to overhead power lines, causing electricity to arc.
- Daniel Watton, 50, pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety regulations by failing to properly plan the work.
- Watton was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay £10,645 in costs at Warrington Magistrates Court.
- The Health and Safety Executive investigation concluded that the work lacked proper planning, supervision, suitable equipment, and adequate training.