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Fatal Mower Incident: Safety Failures Exposed
19 Feb
Summary
- Employee died when ride-on mower fell on him in pond.
- Company removed essential roll-over protection system.
- Firm fined nearly £40,000 for safety breaches.
A company has been fined nearly £40,000 following the tragic death of an employee, Kamil Grygieniec, 23. The incident occurred in October 2021 when Mr. Grygieniec was operating a ride-on lawnmower on an inclined bank near Ripon. He was found deceased in a pond after the machine fell on top of him.
MHS Countryside Management Limited pleaded guilty to breaching health and safety laws. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) revealed that the company had not performed a suitable risk assessment. Critically, the lawnmower's roll-over protection system (ROPS), a vital safety feature for uneven terrain, had been removed.
The HSE emphasized that proper risk assessment is paramount when using ride-on machinery, especially on slopes or near water. Employers must ensure equipment is appropriate and equipped with necessary safety features. Mr. Grygieniec was on his last day of employment with the company and was scheduled to start a new job the following week.
His parents stated that his death was preventable and that the pain of his loss is unimaginable. The company was fined £27,000, with an additional £11,166.41 in costs, following the hearing at York Magistrates' Court.
